Physical and sporting activity is an integral part of a child’s psychomotor development. It promotes muscle development and the acquisition of balance, movement coordination, and precision. It helps children become aware of their bodies and their perception of them in space (their “body schema”).

Additionally, studies have shown that children who participate in sports such as track and field or ball sports develop greater bone mass than their sedentary peers and may have a lower risk of osteoporosis later in life. For this reason, sport for children can play an important role in supporting healthy physical development.

The benefits of sport for children

On a psychological level, sport helps children develop confidence, autonomy, decision-making skills, and a sense of mutual assistance. For restless children, it can provide an opportunity to release excess energy and learn self-control.

On a social level, practicing sport in a club allows children to develop relationships outside of the school context and based on different requirements. Physical performance, the role within the team, and the importance of collective work allow children to acquire qualities that extend beyond the simple framework of physical skills.

Does your child lack exercise?

A few simple exercises can help you identify whether your child (from 6 years old) may lack physical activity.

• Lying on their back, with their legs straight and ankles supported, the child should be able to rise slowly to a sitting position.
• The same exercise can be performed while lying on their back, but with their knees bent and their ankles also supported.
• Lying on their back, with their hands behind their neck, the child should keep their legs straight 30 cm above the ground for 10 seconds.
• Lying on their stomach, on a cushion, with their hands behind their neck and their ankles and pelvis held on the ground, the child should lift their trunk and stay in this position for 10 seconds.
• Lying on their stomach, with their hands under their forehead and their trunk supported, the child should raise their straight legs and hold the position for 10 seconds.
• Standing barefoot with their feet together, the child should try to touch the ground with their fingertips without bending their legs.

A child should be able to complete most of these exercises. If you have concerns about your child’s physical development or exercise tolerance, it is best to seek advice from a healthcare professional.