Game of Life - Education and Employment
Being active as a child doesn’t just burn off excess energy. The brain is high in plasticity during childhood and adolescence and – while it is not suggested that physical activity in itself can make children cleverer – physical activity does release hormones, neurotransmitters and a protein which are all responsible for learning, memory, and higher thinking.
Physical activity increases cellular components which (amongst other things) support the systems in the brain that are responsible for learning, decision making and memory.
Being more active can also lead to increased self-esteem as a result of better body image and accomplishing physical achievements. This can help children to develop motivation and determination – skills which are particularly useful in acquiring new information for passing exams.
What’s more, it is at this young age that habits are set for life. Studies in Scandinavia have shown that those regularly active at 14 years of age are much more likely to be active at the age of 31 – four times more active for men and three times for women. Young people should be engaged in sport at an early age.
This section explores how sport and recreation can be used in education and how children benefit from it in a variety of ways. Sport and recreation can increase productivity in children and adults and help train us in qualities needed for employment later in life.
Some studies suggest higher earning potential for the most active and show physical activity interventions to increase work place productivity, reduce sick leave and staff turnover for employers.
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