Why is Soccer good for kids?

written by Anythony Graham: Livestrong.com

Soccer is a simple game that kids of any age and either gender can play. 

Physical stature is unimportant, making the game suitable for children of all shapes and sizes. As a result, soccer is a very inclusive sport, and it provides numerous physical and social benefits.

Health and Fitness

Soccer offers a great all-around workout for kids of all ages. Running up and down the field is an excellent aerobic exercise, while the constant change of pace and direction also helps to develop a child’s fitness levels and balance. According to SteadyHealth, playing soccer helps to increase a child’s muscle and bone strength while also promoting flexibility and endurance. Soccer is a great way to combat obesity; time spent kicking a ball around is far more beneficial than time spent in front of the television or computer screen.

Team Building

Soccer is a great way for kids to learn how to work as part of a team. A good soccer team relies on unity, with each player doing his part for the greater good of the team. Individualism is certainly not discouraged in soccer, but being aware of the players around you and their individual skills and strengths is an important part of the sport. Team play also helps to improve a child’s work ethic, another important life skill.

Confidence

Soccer is open to players of both sexes and all shapes and sizes. It therefore offers an activity to kids who might struggle in other sports According to Families Online Magazine, soccer can greatly increase a child’s self-esteem and self-confidence.

Sportsmanship

According to the Complete Soccer Guide website, kids can learn how to play sports gracefully from their coaches and teammates. The rules of soccer  promote and reward good sporting behavior among youth players. This is another positive attribute that a child can learn through soccer and then apply to general social interactions.

Social

Youth soccer clubs provide a great opportunity for kids to socialize and make new friends. The team-building aspect of a soccer club helps to foster relationships between kids of differing backgrounds and personalities.

Fun

The numerous physical and social benefits of soccer are made all the more appealing because soccer is good, simple fun. According to the Complete Soccer Guide, “Anyone can have fun kicking around a soccer ball.” With a good coach and support from parents, soccer can be a big part of a child’s life. A child can benefit from all of soccer’s positive aspects while having fun at the same time.