Schools are unlocking children's potential with a key ingredient

There is a popular saying that says "healthy mind in a healthy body". At the heart of this maxim is the idea that sport and physical activity are essential for a child's full development. I believe that, now more than ever, our schools are recognizing this fact and are therefore unlocking children's potential with one key ingredient: you sports.

But what do sports offer that is so essential for children's growth and development? To understand this, we must first look at the facts.

The practice of physical activities can significantly influence the learning process and the assimilation of information by young people. In “Spark”, a work by Dr. John Ratey, comprehensive research establishing a link between physical fitness and learning ability in children is discussed.

Over a decade, this study evaluated more than one million children, demonstrating that even a single session of moderate physical activity – such as a 20-minute walk – can improve a child's ability to concentrate and perform better on academic tests at that time. day. These cognitive benefits appear immediately after exercise.

Additionally, Ratey's work presents evidence that aerobic fitness (ie, cardiovascular capacity) is linked to improved cognitive function.

And how does physical exercise impact children diagnosed with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)? Research also reveals that these children can benefit greatly from regular exercise, which tends to improve behavior, concentration and learning. Similar benefits have been seen in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

But beyond the data, there are also intangible and intrinsic benefits that sport offers. Here are some of them:

• Resilience: Sport teaches children how to deal with adversity, how to stay focused in the face of obstacles and how to get back up after a fall. These are valuable skills that will benefit them in all areas of life.
• Team work: Sport often requires children to work together to achieve a common goal. This teaches collaboration, communication, and empathy skills.
• Discipline and focus: Regular practice of sports requires discipline and willpower. This can help children develop good habits and focus on important tasks.
• Self confidence: Achieving goals and overcoming challenges in sport can help boost children's self-confidence.
• Fun: In addition to all the above benefits, sport is fun! It offers children a healthy way to express themselves and enjoy their time.

Therefore, when we incorporate sport into school life, we are not just improving children's physical health. We are equipping them with life skills and laying the foundation for their future success. We are giving them a chance to shine, to excel, to grow. We are unlocking your potential.

Schools that incorporate sport as an integral part of the curriculum are paving the way for the holistic development of children. And as a result, they are raising a generation of young people who are not only healthy in body but also strong in spirit. They are raising a generation that is better equipped to face life's challenges with resilience, confidence and determination.

Last, but certainly not least, sport promotes inclusion. Regardless of differences in abilities, all children can benefit from sports. Whether it's a collective soccer game, or an individual moment in swimming, sport has the ability to unite children from different backgrounds, and teach them about respect and camaraderie.

Therefore, the true value of sport at school goes far beyond simply keeping children physically active. He helps nurture a generation of well-rounded, resilient and confident young people. It unlocks children's potential, allowing them to become the best version of themselves.

So the question is not whether or not we should include sports in schools. The question is how we can make this a priority to ensure that every child has the opportunity to experience the incredible benefits that sport offers. Because every kid that gets a chance to play is a kid that gets a chance to grow, learn, and become all that they can be.

In the end, schools that promote sports are doing more than just training athletes. They are forming leaders, scholars, and well-rounded citizens. They are shaping the future. And that's a game we can all win.