Sports as a therapeutic solution for children from SEMH backgrounds

In this article, I will explain why play is so important for children with complex backgrounds and needs. Sports and games allow for children to develop socially which is important in them to become functional, well-rounded members of society. Sports is one of the only ways it is possible for children to develop these social skills.

1) The physical benefits of sports include cardiovascular health, weight management, bone strength and reduced risk of chronic diseases, etc. Just to name a few.

 2) The mental health benefits of sports include releases endorphins, improved mood and enhanced cognitive function, etc.

Sports can be something to develop more resilience.

3) The social benefits of playing sports.

Playing as a defensive-minded player on the football field and being a keen educator, I am more fascinated using sport to develop young mind and characteristics that will improve their futures.

Playing in sports teams gives children and adults to challenge their preconceived notions of the world and others.

Playing football, cricket or any sport for that matter has a massive impact on the local community as young people get the opportunity to get to meet each other and engage in sport. People are not soo much interested in nationality, identity, etc. What's more important is there internal character and outward character to perform within the sport.

There will always be a debate on what is more important on a football pitch or basket ball court.

Ask yourself these questions.

1) What is more important, courage or skills?

2) What is more important for a young athlete, confidence or speed?

3) How do we quantify success in these environments? Especially in schools.

How do you quantify success? Should it be one size fits all, or a more flexible approach? Should we factor in the participant's own characteristics, capabilities, and talents?

Review

Some of these questions may seem similar to this question. Which came first, the chicken on the egg? It would be amazing to ask parents which character traits and qualities they wish their own child had and how they would you go about developing it? My background working in an SENMH background we prioritise the development of social skills amongst each other, whether each one can play fairly or follow the instructions correctly. If they cannot or a peer can and they can't how do they respond?

When we are working up close and personal with these children day in and day out, we do prioritise building their own resilience, confidence and a sense of humour, especially when things don't go there way!

In SEMH schools using the element of 'play' in their education is important for children from these backgrounds because it hopes in them.