Like any sport, football comes with real benefits for children. Here’s a look at what it does for them socially, physically and mentally.
The social benefits
It improves a child’s social skills. Children learn to communicate and connect with each other when they play as part of a team. A team sport helps them integrate and make friends, and teaches conflict management and respect for others.
Develops self-esteem. Doing something they love alongside friends instils confidence. A team builds a strong friendship group and a real sense of fitting in, and children learn to handle both triumph and defeat.
Builds cooperation. Football needs every player to cooperate. Being part of the team teaches children to play their part in any situation.
Creates focus. A regular game is a healthy, enjoyable part of a child’s routine and a good way to build concentration.
Promotes teamwork and sharing. Working with others toward a common goal is a lesson that carries from the pitch into everyday life.
Makes friends. Training together is a good way to build healthy friendships that can last for years, while keeping kids active and in good company.
Helps at school. Children who play sport often do well academically too, carrying the same dedication and hard work into their studies.
Teaches discipline. Young players gain tactical, mental and physical discipline, learning self-restraint and how to play by the rules.
The mental health benefits
Boosts mood. Football gives children a chance to unwind and take on a satisfying challenge that improves mental fitness.
Improves concentration. The game keeps mental skills sharp: critical thinking, learning and good judgement.
Reduces stress. Physical activity takes the mind off daily worries and lowers stress hormones, keeping stress and low mood at bay.
Improves sleep. Active children fall asleep faster and sleep more deeply, and better sleep lifts their mood the next day.
The physical health benefits
Weight management. Vigorous activity like football burns calories and fat. Children who play sport tend to be fitter for it.
Better circulation. Playing oxygenates the body and improves blood circulation, raising haemoglobin count and blood volume.
Enhanced fitness. As an organised sport, football builds stamina and lowers the risk of conditions that come from being inactive.
Stronger muscles and bones. Sport tones muscles and strengthens bones, building a stronger body overall.
The benefits add up, and they shouldn’t stop at the school gate. Most of all, encourage your children to take it up as a hobby and enjoy it.