Organised sport teaches children to follow rules, guidelines and etiquette of the game. Rules help to ensure that the game is safe, fair and more enjoyable. It can help prevent chaos and disagreements between players, referees, officials and spectators.  

Children learn that by following rules around safety and efficiency, you can have more fun while you're playing. 

Sometimes, referees, umpires, coaches or team members make decisions that don't go your child's way. Children learn to build resilience through sport by accepting decisions and focusing on what they can control.  

If children spend too long dwelling on decisions against them or their team, their performance will likely be impacted. Staying focused on the game will help your child bounce back from setbacks and learn from mistakes. 

In sports, children will experience both wins and losses. This is similar to life; sometimes things go your way, and other times they do not. 

Winning and losing graciously takes maturity, resilience and emotional control. These skills develop over time, and sport provides a safe space to practice them. Unlike some bigger, real-life challenges, the stakes of winning or losing games are usually low, making it a great way to learn how to handle disappointment. 

Good sportsmanship is an important value in sport. Regardless of whether you win or lose, you respect your opponent, your teammates and the officials.  

By playing sports and being exposed to different situations, children learn how to treat other people with respect regardless of the outcome.  

Your child may find it challenging, but they will eventually appreciate the value of good sportsmanship when they shake hands after a tough game. 

Team sporting environments encourage cooperation and working toward a common goal. Learning to work as a team can benefit a child's social skills, such as active listening and sharing. Understanding the value of teamwork encourages children to work more effectively in other scenarios like school or family settings. 

Being a part of a team also gives children a sense of belonging. They build friendships with teammates and their families, which can last a lifetime.