How Do School Athletics Help Students Achieve In The Classroom?
If you’re the parent of a K-12 student, you might be wondering about the importance of school athletics when it comes to academic achievement. Several studies have shown the importance of physical education when it comes to developing healthy habits that last a lifetime. Movement during the day is critical for the mental and physical health of growing children, and it’s also been shown to improve students’ ability to concentrate during class.
With more than 34,575 private schools in the nation collectively serving over 5.7 million elementary and secondary school students, it’s clear that parents want to see their young students thrive.
Let’s delve into the ways that involvement in school athletics can actually help your child grow academically and socially.
1. Better Grades and More Participation
Students involved in school sports tend to earn higher grades. There is also evidence suggesting that students who participate in sports finish high school at higher rates than students who aren’t involved in organized school-led athletic activities.
2. Higher College Enrollment and Graduation Rates
Some studies have shown that students who participate in organized high school athletics have higher college graduation rates than those who don’t. This is a robust finding that appears to be true even for individuals from various economic backgrounds.
3. Improved Life Skills
Students who participate in school sports often develop important life skills such as self-confidence, responsibility, respect, and leadership abilities. Some evidence exists indicating that school sports participation helps improve women’s overall earning potential. In fact, high levels of women in executive leadership positions participated in high school sports. Plus, more than half of the female executives who participated in one study directly linked the skills they learned while participating in athletics to their success in the business world.
4. Increased Social Integration and Sense of Personal Responsibility
Children and teens who participate in sports tend to have better relationships with adults, including teachers, coaches, and parents. They also tend to have better self-esteem and report feeling closer to family members. Some studies have found a link between participation in school athletics and increased rates of participation in volunteer activities. Students who participate in school athletics are less inclined to engage in risky behavior and more likely to take personal responsibility for their actions.
Becoming involved in school athletics will benefit your young learner in elementary, middle, and high school and beyond. The skills your child will learn will help them flourish academically and socially, which will only help them succeed in their adult life. If you’re interested in sending your child to a top-notch private school with excellent school athletics, contact Kehoe-France today!
