Physical exercise in young children has many heath benefits, from improved
fitness and self-esteem, to social skills and interpersonal skills on the playing
field and in the classrooms. Children are attracted to sport for the opportunity to
be with friends and to learn new skills rather than extrinsic rewards of receiving
trophies or prizes. It is therefore important to understand the reasons why
children play sport to help children to have the best positive experiences in
sport. Children experience three main stages of growth, i) early childhood, from
4 to 6 years old, ii) pre-adolescent, 6 to 10 years old, and lastly, iii) Adolescent,
10 to 20 years old. Throughout these stages, children experience various changes
in physical, motor ability and skills competency. It is important to remember that
the physiology of children is dynamic and they cannot be regarded as miniature
adults. Children have varying rates of development and early and late matures
would display varying levels of physical fitness and responses to exercise.
Trainers should be aware of the physiological changes of children and limit the
intensity of training and focus on nutrition during childhood and early
adolescence, especially during the pubertal growth spurt. Successful trainers
must adopt effective communication strategies with children and guide children
along the most suitable development pathways in their chosen sport. It is
important to ensure that children train in a safe environment and have an
enjoyable experience in sport.
Dr Ann Mahakeeta
Faculty of Physical Education, Srinakharinwirot University
