1 Sep 2023

How Engaging in Team Sports Can Benefit Your Child

Team sports have always been, and always will be, a massive part of Australian culture. As a kid, you most likely took part in some kind of team sport…whether it was AFL, Rugby League, Netball, Cricket, Swimming or Soccer. And most likely this was because your parents thought it was a good idea to keep you active, fit and healthy. But team sports can benefit your children’s lives in soooooooo many more ways than just increasing their physical health… 

 

IMPROVES SOCIAL CONNECTEDNESS 

  • Playing team sports is a great way for kids to make long and lasting friendships. Having a common interest and working together towards achieving a common goal can create strong bonds and connections, as well as enhance social development. 

IMPROVES RESILIENCE 

  • When playing sports, your child will undoubtedly experience a loss at some point. This can help them to build resilience by learning to overcome defeat, obstacles and adversity through the pursuit of winning. 

IMPROVES SELF-ESTEEM 

  • Your child will also get to experience the joy of winning and achievement, which can boost their confidence and self-esteem. Being in an environment that is encouraging and supportive can also increase motivation, focus, and commitment. 

TEACHES VALUABLE LESSONS 

  • While some kids may just play sport for a few years and branch off into other areas/hobbies of interest, many other children will continue to play sports long into adulthood. This can often allow an individual to realise the importance of focus and commitment in achieving mastery of a certain skill. In short, the improvement that your child will see in their skills over time will teach them a very important lesson…hard work pays off… 

If you think that your child could benefit from engaging in team sport, here are some local sporting clubs to look into… 

  • Boyne Island Tannum Sands Australian Football Club 
  • Tannum Seagulls Junior Rugby League 
  • Boyne Island Cricket Club 
  • Gladstone Netball Association 
  • Gladstone United Football Club 
  • Gladstone Gladiators Swimming Club 
  • Gladstone Field Archers 

 

How to Access a Psychologist at CQ Psych Services:

  • Contact us directly by calling 07 4972 6929 or email admin@cqpsychservices.com.au
  • Ask your GP or health professional to refer you to our clinic.
  • Come in and see our friendly staff at Shop 1 & 2, 13 Tank Street, Gladstone QLD 4680.
  • Visit our website and complete a ‘Request an Appointment’ form and one of our friendly staff will reply to your enquiry. Website: https://cqpsychservices.com.au/

Author: Tom Grainger

Provisional Psychologist