THE SOCIAL BENEFITS OF TENNIS FOR CHILDREN

While the Nintendo games can certainly be a great deal of fun and schoolwork is of vital importance, children today are spending too many hours glued to their screens. Whether studying or playing, it is simply not healthy for our youngsters to be sitting down inside all day! Most parents in Hong Kong are aware of this and know that children need to participate in some type of sport or physical activity to remain healthy.

The physical benefits of tennis are tremendous for growing bodies, no question about it, but often people overlook the other benefits that sports, including tennis, can provide to developing minds.

Let’s take a look at some of the many social benefits of tennis for children in Hong Kong:

TENNIS CREATES A SENSE OF BELONGING

When children enroll in a tennis club or program it is no different than joining a team. They obtain a sense of belonging and camaraderie, as well as an opportunity to make new friends!

It can also be beneficial for a child to develop a new circle of friends from outside of their school.

TENNIS PROMOTES SPORTSMANSHIP

Tennis can help children learn to win and lose graciously. Young tennis players are discouraged from taunting their opponents following victories and from throwing tantrums when they suffer a loss.

These social skills will be beneficial in the school, as well as the workplace later in life.

TENNIS ENCOURAGES CHILDREN TO RESPECT AUTHORITY

As with most sports, tennis involves following rules, taking direction and accepting decisions. By interacting with coaches, referees, and other players, children can learn to respect their elders and listen to their peers, both of which are important skills kids can take home from the court.

TENNIS BOOSTS SELF-ESTEEM

Countless studies over the years have linked sport to the development of self-esteem in children. Children can build self-esteem through high fives, post-match handshakes, and support from coaches and parents.

These are just a few of the many examples of the social benefits tennis can provide kids in Hong Kong as they develop into well-rounded, mature adults. Encourage your child to pick up a racquet and find out for themselves!