Studies are important to gain knowledge and advance academically, while sports is equally important to develop one’s overall personality. There are so many positive benefits that sports enthusiasts carry and it all stats at School level, when the student is still young. Schools, globally over the world are focusing on a 360 degree approach to mold kids physically, mentally, socially, and emotionally. So, apart from studies, involvement in extra-curricular activities like sports, is a must!
There are many life lessons that one learns by perusing a sport. Whether it is playing football on the field or a match of table tennis, the player needs to imbibe the qualities of good sportsmanship. This includes; focusing on the game, respecting the opponent, dealing in fair-play, and giving your 100 percent dedication. Aren’t these the same skills that we require in our classrooms? Essentially, taking part in physical events, shapes the student in a way that he becomes a better learner and embodies maturity.
In the current digital era, children barely have the time to gaze away from their phones. Imagine what it’s like to be glued to your screen for 8-9 hours a day, in school and at home. Thanks to digital teaching aids, even in Schools across Dubai, there is no respite for kids to avoid screen time. Of course, coming back home from school is a time to unwind and children prefer to relax by watching cartoons or playing video games, on their smart phones or tablets. Even homework, for that matter, is now done digitally, via EdTech Apps which have gained popularity in the Middle East, across GCC regions.
One alarming fact that we would like to draw your attention to is that; Child Obesity in the Middle East and North Africa is about 5.4 million, which went up from 3.4 million in 2000. This means, youngsters are becoming more lethargic and staying indoors, especially after developing a habit to stay indoors, thanks to the Covid-19 pandemic!
Cricket and Football are major obsessions, and most schools host different sports leagues to bring out the spirit of championship among students. Without sports, life would indeed be boring! Physical activity keeps up body agile and our minds, stress-free. Many who follow these sports have their favorite role models and aspire to be like them.
In Arab countries, traditionally camel racing was considered the most adored sport. However, the trend is changing and Football is now the most popular game of the UAE. Therefore, it is apparent that children will be exposed to the game in their schools to promote the sport, and maybe someday even be a part of the team that represented FIFA World Cup.
Children who represent their school at inter-school sports events and even their nation at National Sports leagues, get extra marks for their achievements and even preference over others while choosing a college. Going ahead, par excellence and fondness for the game may even draw some students to choosing a career in sports. There are numerous sports to opt from which include; athletics, swimming, archery, polo, hockey, basketball, car racing, and the list goes on.
The Science of Sports
This may sound a bit unusual for you. What does Science have to do with sports? Well, you will be quite surprised to know that the Newton’s Law of Motion is applicable on the sports field too. The LEGO® Education BricQ Motion Essential lessons are designed to acquaint children with the Science behind sports, so that it can be applied while playing a game, to better your score. BricQ Motion Essential uses modules such as; Race Car, Free Throw, and Weightlifter, and each is to be built within 45 minutes using elements such as, gears, weight bricks, springs, 4 minifigures and more. Through this, essentially one learns about physical science in action and is even popularly found in classrooms across schools in UAE to touch-upon the STEM curriculum.