Many Young People Are Missing Out on The Benefits of Being Active and Playing Sport
Chance to Shine is using Cricket to overcome this.
Health
Children who are physically active are less likely to be obese or develop long-term illness, such as diabetes, as adults. At a time when over a third of Year 6 children are obese or overweight it is more important now than ever to engage children early.
Education
Attending a sport club outside of school time is linked with higher academic and behavioural outcomes in primary school.
Self-Esteem
There is strong evidence that playing sport is linked to higher self-esteem and confidence, through feeling pride in learning new skills and overcoming challenges.
Mental and Social Wellbeing
People who play sport and are a member of a sport club are more likely to be happy with their lives. There is growing evidence that sport is associated with lowered risks of depression and greater life satisfaction. A major public health study found it can protect children who have had difficult childhoods from developing mental health problems later in life. In a time when children are spending an increasing amount of their free time online, sport provides an important alternative activity that can tackle feelings of isolation and build a sense of belonging.
