Why Physical Activity Helps Raise Happy, Healthy Kids
By Abel Kalpi Nand Prasad
Encouraging kids to be active isn’t just about burning energy—it’s about fostering confidence, building resilience, and developing essential life skills. In an age where screens dominate leisure time, getting children moving is more important than ever. Physical activity not only boosts their physical health but also plays a crucial role in emotional well-being, social skills, and long-term happiness.
The Power of Movement
Exercise isn’t just about keeping fit—it’s a key part of childhood development. Whether it’s running around in the park, riding bikes, or playing structured sports, movement helps kids improve coordination, balance, and problem-solving skills. Rebecca McDonald, Head of Programs at Tennis Australia, explains, “Physical activity is crucial for the development of kids as it helps develop healthy habits, enhances physical and mental well-being, and builds essential life skills like teamwork, resilience, and confidence.”
Sports like tennis provide structured opportunities for kids to develop these skills in a fun, supportive environment. Programs like Hot Shots Tennis allow children to participate at their own level, making the experience engaging and rewarding. James, a father of eight-year-old Max, has seen firsthand how sport has transformed his son. “Since Max started playing tennis regularly, he’s become more confident, made great friends, and even sleeps better at night.”
Sports not only improve physical fitness but also challenge kids mentally. Strategic games like tennis teach patience, decision-making, and perseverance. McDonald highlights, “Sports help kids navigate challenges by teaching resilience and problem-solving. Whether it’s losing a match or mastering a tough skill, kids learn to embrace setbacks as opportunities to grow.”
For Max, smaller group sessions and interactive games helped him settle into the sport. “The little wins gave him such a confidence boost,” James says. “Now he loves showing off his skills each week.”
A Foundation for Life
Encouraging physical activity from a young age helps instil lifelong healthy habits. McDonald emphasises, “Sports programs create a foundation for lifelong health by making movement fun, accessible, and rewarding. They help kids stay active, build friendships, and learn key skills like teamwork and discipline.”
Active kids also tend to perform better academically, find social interactions easier, and develop greater emotional resilience. Engaging in physical play teaches children how to handle life’s challenges—whether that’s accepting defeat gracefully or persisting through difficulties.
Overcoming Barriers to Activity
Starting a new sport or activity can be intimidating, particularly for shy or less confident children. “Every expert was once a beginner,” McDonald reassures. “Focus on having fun rather than trying to be perfect right away.”
Creating a supportive environment is key to ensuring children feel comfortable. James recalls how his son was initially hesitant about tennis. “Max was nervous at first, but his coaches were fantastic. They encouraged him every step of the way, and now he can’t wait to go each week.”
The joy of mastering a new skill and overcoming challenges gives children a sense of pride and accomplishment. Physical activity isn’t just about developing strong bodies—it also builds self-esteem, resilience, and meaningful social connections.
Choosing the Right Activity
Finding a sport or activity your child genuinely enjoys is the key to keeping them engaged. It doesn’t have to be a structured program—anything from weekend soccer games to family bike rides can be beneficial. The goal is to make movement a natural and enjoyable part of their routine.
As McDonald puts it, “Confidence grows with practice, so give yourself time and be proud of trying something new.” Encouraging kids to be active is about much more than fitness—it’s about equipping them with the tools to lead a happy, balanced, and confident life.
