lundi 17 juin 2013

Pros And Cons Of Sport Classes For Kids

By Mara Boone


Sports are a major part of modern society today. Many of us have grown up watching a variety of sports and participating in some as well. Even many of those who weren't active in athletics become followers of a particular sport or team once they get older. With the growing popularity of these pastimes, more and more children are participating in sports, oftentimes to a much more serious degree than was typically done in the past. As a result, sport classes for kids are increasingly common and there is some debate as to the benefits that they offer.

One of the primary reasons why people support this type of activity for youths is the development of sportsmanship, teamwork and social skills. These attributes are certainly ones that can be fostered through the playing of competitive sports and are inarguably useful outside of the sporting arena. Being able to work well with other people is an invaluable skill in families, business and more.

On the other side of this argument is the concern about the effect of competition on developing youth. Some may be prone to being excessively competitive, which can be a hindrance socially and beyond. Others may have issues with lowered self-esteem if they are not as successful, which can have a wide range of negative effects on children as well as adults.

Another benefit that is sometimes cited is the stress relief that comes with physical activity. Modern kids tend to live more stressful lives in many ways than previous generations did and sports are often seen as a healthy outlet for stress and tension due to the physical and social aspects that are involved.

The other side of this is that the classes and the related competition can actually add stress rather than helping to relieve and to deal with it. There is oftentimes an inordinate amount of pressure that comes along with competition. Coaches, parents and peers can all be external sources while the child may also place undue pressure upon himself or herself.

Probably the most commonly referenced benefit is the simple fact that participation in sport provides the child with much-needed physical exercise. With progressively sedentary lifestyles these days, this is a very important consideration in the overall health of children and in establishing healthy habits for adulthood.

One drawback to this added exercise is the risk of injury that is inherent in many such activities. American football, rugby and other collision sports obviously have a higher risk than ones such as tennis and golf, but none are completely free of jeopardizing the health of the participants. Major and minor injuries can both have long-lasting effects, both physically and mentally.

It is clear that there are both benefits and drawbacks to sport classes for kids. There is little to no black and white in this debate and, because everyone is different, it is up to each child and his or her parents to decide what is best for him or her. This will depend upon the personality and needs of the child as well as the benefits and risks involved.




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