Obesity is on the rise in school-age children given changing behaviours and lifestyle choices, so regular exercise is very important. But playing sport isn’t just about maintaining a healthy weight it can also have a significant impact on a child’s motivation to learn, and their overall achievement. Find out more here.
Is Your Child Fit For Learning?
Playing sport has benefits far beyond physical fitness and health according to experts. Physical activity, particularly at school, can also significantly improve achievement. Why? Playing sport improves brain function. For example, some games, football for instance, require problem-solving skills, quick thinking and sharp judgement. All of those skills are transferable to other subjects and to life generally.
For young people to benefit from a physical activity programme schools need to be investing in their sports activities and facilities – and that includes carefully considering the range and type of sports options that they offer.
Schools Need To Get Behind The Importance Of Playing Sport
The Australian International School Phnom Penh (AISPP), completely understands the important role of sport in their formal curricula.
“We have invested in a rigorous and exciting sports programme at AISPP and have extensive sports facilities to offer. From swimming and soccer, to yoga and karate, our programme has something for everyone.”
Sport Is An Important Element Of The Learning Environment
Aside from key academic benefits, sport also nurtures a child’s social skills. The very nature of sport requires children to communicate with and to listen carefully to each other; teambuilding fosters a sense of mutual respect and acceptance too. It has also been proven that sport ‘energises’ youngsters leading to more positive engagement and enthusiasm for learning.
Sport Makes Children Feel Special!
Playing sport can also make children feel wanted and valued. This can help disengaged kids or those struggling to find their place, to find a renewed enthusiasm for life and the people around them. It also promotes personal resilience and independent learning.
Aside from the academic, social and behavioural benefits, sport is enjoyable – and if that makes children happier, healthier and more positive about going into school each day, then it needs to be encouraged!
AISPP, an Australian Co-ed IB International K-12 school (Phnom Penh), is fast becoming one of the Kingdom of Cambodia’s leading education providers. Providing a modern Australian private and independent education, its 21st Century philosophy, state-of-the-art facilities and world-class teaching standards, make it ideally placed to prepare children for the global challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Talk to us on t: +855 92 111 136, email: info@aispp.edu.kh.