John Bohonyi has always led an active lifestyle playing football and other sports through childhood into adulthood.

As someone interested in health and fitness, John Bohonyi has taken a long look into the benefits of playing sports for children in relation to living happy and active lifestyles.

Why Should Kids Play Sports?

Some parents are hesitant to get their children into sports due to hectic schedules with practices and games along with other negative factors such as the recent concerns with head trauma and concussions. However, it is important to consider the many positive aspects of youth sports. For John Bohonyi, sports were a major part of his childhood and have taught him many valuable life lessons along the way. Because of this, he encourages parents to get their kids out there playing and trying different sports and other types of physical activities until they find something they love.

One of the main reasons sports are beneficial for children is the amount of physical activity and exercise they will receive. Children these days spend countless hours not just sitting at school but then they come home and do what? Sit. They do their homework and then they sit in front of the TV, game station, or computer. There are far too many sport options out there to say your child can’t possibly find one thing to enjoy that will get them out of the chair or off the sofa. Physical activity is central to health especially in children! They are bundles of energy and it should be channeled into action!

A second reason John Bohonyi recommends to consider sports is for the social skills. Playing sports allows kids to get a taste for working as a team. You don’t always play with people who are just like you! You learn to win and you learn to lose. It also gives them exposure to a coach, an authority figure who is not family or a teacher at school. Kids need exposure to other kids their age that they may or may not go to school with and also with other adults. Gaining these social skills will prove highly beneficial in their personal lives, education, and professional careers. 

Self-esteem is another aspect to consider. What if your child turns out to be great at a sport? That is a huge boost! They found something they ended up loving! And even if it is a bit of a struggle if they are on a team they get encouragement. They learn to not give up and keep trying. They get a support system around them that’s their own age. Besides when you work hard at something and see improvement that provides you a boost!

Don’t worry about academics! Your kids grades will most likely not suffer because they are in sports. In fact, they may even improve. The discipline they learn from practicing with sports can be applied to their studies. Also if they are in better physical shape it lends itself to healthier sleeping habits. That in turn leads to a more alert and focused child at school.

So if your child is showing any inclination towards sports, give it serious consideration! Although it may tax your time and some money, the benefits may prove to be worth it to you and your family. Look at the big picture and then decide what is truly best for your child and your family.

For more tips and ideas related to sports, health and fitness, and more, be sure to follow John Bohonyi on Quora.