Organised sport teaches children to follow the 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 for 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, officials, coaches or team members make decisions that don't go your child's way. Children learn to build resilience by accepting decisions made and learning to control what is in their power to 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 are likely to experience both wins and losses during games. This is similar to life; sometimes, things go your way, and other times, they may not. Similarly, a situation may turn out as expected, or it may not.

Losing graciously takes maturity, resilience and emotional control. Like any life lesson, this comes with time and exposure to different scenarios. The advantage of learning these skills through physical activity or sport is that the consequences of losing are very slim. Children learn a lesson in life in a safe environment with little to no consequences. 

Sportsmanship is an important underlying value in sporting communities. Regardless of whether you win or lose, you respect your opponent, your players, the opposition and the officials. 

By playing sports and being exposed to different situations, children learn how to treat other people with respect regardless of the circumstances or who they might be. 

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

Team sporting environments encourage cooperation. Working as a team can often result in better performance. The skills learned while collaborating can also benefit a child's social abilities, such as active listening and sharing. Understanding the value of teamwork can encourage children to work more effectively with others towards a common goal.

Teams also allow your child to create a sense of belonging in a community of like-minded children and parents. This can progress into life-long friendships.