Sports and Games: Are They Necessary for Children?

In today's academic-driven world, parents often push their children to excel academically above all else. The mantra seems to be: study hard, be the top student, secure the best job, and earn the most. This intense focus on academics often leaves no room for playtime, relaxation, hobbies, or family visits, as these are viewed as unproductive. Despite the requirement for extracurricular activities, only an hour per week is typically allocated to them. Parents often perceive sports and games as dangerous and unimportant, though children love them. The joy children experience during game periods is undeniable. However, parents fear injuries and worry that a passion for sports might detract from academic performance.

The Role of Sports and Games in a Child’s Life:

1. Physical Fitness: Builds a strong physique, keeping the child fit and energetic.

2. Knowledge: Provides opportunities to learn new sports and gather information.

3. Social Interaction: Encourages meeting and interacting with diverse individuals.

4. Competition: Teaches children to compete and strive to be winners.

5. Resilience: Helps them face and accept failure as a stepping stone to success.

6. Teamwork: Trains children to share, adjust, and work as part of a team.

7. Confidence: Enhances confidence and self-esteem to take up challenges.

8. Self-Reliance: Practices being self-equipped and self-sufficient.

9. Sportsmanship: Instills the spirit of true sportsmanship.

10. Civic Sense: Develops civic sense and team spirit.

11. Critical Thinking: Nurtures higher and clearer thinking.

12. Values: Inculcates personal values.

Let’s ensure our children have time for sports and games. Allowing them to play with friends helps them vent accumulated energy and reap these benefits. By integrating sports and games into their daily routine, we are not just allowing our children to play but equipping them with essential life skills that will serve them well beyond their academic years. Let’s prioritize a balanced approach to our children's development, where academics and extracurricular activities, especially sports and games, go hand in hand. This will ensure they grow up to be well-rounded individuals, ready to face the challenges of the future with confidence and integrity.