Generally, parents enroll their children in organized sports to help them make friends, get active, or simply have fun. However, what some parents might not initially consider is the impact that sports games can have on children’s motor skills, such as balance, coordination, and control! After analyzing multiple studies, researchers Shengchuan Sun and Changzhou Chen found that structured sports significantly improved these skills in children compared to unstructured activities. 

What factors influence this improvement in motor skills? The researchers found that both the intensity and consistency of structured programs, especially when combined with high-energy sessions, were effective. The hope is that organized sports will continue to be incorporated into children’s daily routines as a fun way to build those essential motor skills they’ll need later in life. 

Interested in learning more? Click here to read the full article! 

 

Rachel Silverman 

UConn KIDS, Research Assistant 

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