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Montreal, Canada – A new study urges parents to encourage their children to participate in organized sports, highlighting the significant positive impact on academic performance. Researchers from the University of Montreal found that both boys and girls who engage in team sports or artistic activities like dance and gymnastics are more likely to earn a high school diploma and achieve higher grades.
The study, published in the journal Children, analyzed data from nearly 2,800 Canadian children from birth to early adulthood. It revealed that boys involved in organized sports were nearly 15% more likely to graduate high school, while girls participating in sports were 7% more likely to do so. Girls who participated in artistic sports demonstrated a particularly strong link to academic success, with nearly 23% higher grades overall.
The researchers attribute these positive outcomes to the structured environment of organized sports. “When supervised by an adult and often in teams, sports allow children to develop key skills in various areas—leadership, behaving in a group, prolonged attention—that can be transferred to academic classes,” the study states.
However, the study also highlights significant disparities. Girls from low-income families or those experiencing family dysfunction were less likely to participate in sports due to financial constraints and lack of parental involvement.
“Important barriers remain to an active lifestyle in childhood, mainly the financial cost and involvement from parents,” the researchers emphasized.
This research underscores the importance of promoting accessible and inclusive sports programs for all children, regardless of their socioeconomic background.
Disclaimer: This is a simplified version of the research findings. For a comprehensive understanding, refer to the original study published in the journal Children.
