How fitness promotes better student well-being
It is noticed that children are accepted by peers when they excel in a physical activity.” Diana Nahas, counsellor
We’ve heard what schools have to say about how important fitness is in a student’s life, but aside from the physical benefits it has, how beneficial is it for a child’s mental wellbeing?
Speaking to Khaleej Times, Diana Nahas, counsellor at Dubai’s German Neuroscience Centre, said exercising is a “positive way to alleviate stress”.
“It helps to canalise the energy in a positive way. Like adults, children can suffer from symptoms of depression and anxiety. Exercising improves children’s health, and active children are more rested and alert.”
But aside from that, she said it can have a positive impact on their abilities for arithmetic, reading, memorisation and concentration. And although exercise helps build a healthy heart, it can also encourage social development, self-confidence and self-esteem.
“It is noticed that children are accepted by their peers when they excel in a physical activity that is valued by other children.”
With physical education classes in school often viewed as daunting by some children, Nahas said it is up to the teacher to structure lessons in a way that avoids a child feeling pressured/isolated.
“Physical education teachers play a fundamental role in engaging children who are lacking in confidence, so they should always focus on a child’s strengths not weaknesses.”
And going back to the positive impact exercise has on a child’s socialbility, Nahas said while exercising, children discover their peers in another environment.
“For example, a child who is discreet in the classroom and then excels in physical activity will be perceived differently by others. It could provide him/her the possibility to become the leader of a sport group.”
Additionally, it encourages children to learn different ways of engaging with others.
“It facilitates team building and helps to value team efforts. Common goals become stronger and differences less important. They work together towards a common objective, which creates a bond among peers,” she said.
kelly@khaleejtimes.com