Did you know? Self-esteem issues are presenting themselves in kids at younger ages than ever before. This article sourced from ATA highlights statistics on low-self esteem in children today. Feel free to check it out here:
Our goal is to empower children in and out of the gym, building confidence and character in an environment that encourages personal growth in our athletes!
Low self-esteem is an ever-growing problem in today’s youth, presenting itself as young as elementary school. Statistics sourced from self-esteem expert Jack Canfield, of Chicken Soup for the Soul, notes that 80 percent of children entering the first grade scored high on the self-esteem inventory. By the fifth grade only 20 percent of the children were scoring high.
Kids begin to form their own self-esteem beliefs at a very young age, largely developed by what they see and hear from those around them. “Children with unhealthy self-esteem feel that the important adults and peers in their lives do not accept them,” according to Prof. Saavedra’s article in Psychology of Infancy & Childhood.
Coaches, parents, and teachers are pillars in shaping children's self-image. Whether it is in the classroom, at practice, or at home, adults have the power to impact the self-esteem of the next generation. So how can we help?
Combating Low Self-Esteem in Children - Involvement In Youth Sports
Participation in youth sports are proven to host a range of benefits for kids, namely a significant impact on self-esteem. According to an article published by University of San Diego, “studies have drawn a correlation between participation in youth sports and higher self-esteem and happiness”. Involvement in youth sports offers a unique environment for children to build confidence, practice resilience, develop physical health, and engage in social interactions, all while in pursuit of a shared or individual goal. Involvement in sports at a young age, even if for a short time, has the power to make a big difference in the trajectory of self-image as children mature into adulthood.
Building Confidence
Whether it's mastering a new skill or facing their fears, accomplishments made in sports bolster a child's belief in their own abilities and potential. Success in sports reinforces the notion that with effort and dedication, they can overcome challenges—a mindset that translates beyond sports into various aspects of life.
Resilience
Learning to bounce back from setbacks fosters a resilient mindset, enabling children to approach future challenges with confidence rather than fear of failure. As they navigate the ups and downs of sports, they also learn crucial social and emotional skills like teamwork, communication, and sportsmanship.
Social Interaction
Being part of a team fosters friendships, camaraderie, and a support network of peers and coaches who encourage effort and participation. Feeling accepted and valued within a group goes a long way in reinforcing self-worth and identity, contributing positively to their overall sense of self-esteem.
Physical Health
The physical benefits of youth sports are well-documented, but their impact on mental and emotional well-being is equally significant. Regular physical activity releases endorphins, reducing stress and promoting a positive mood. Children who are physically active through sports often exhibit higher levels of self-confidence and self-image, not to mention they experience the tangible benefits and form habits of an active lifestyle.
It is important to recognize and be intentional with the power we hold in influencing a child’s outlook of themselves and those around them. We’re committed to displaying guidance and reassurance in the development of a positive self-image for students at CEGW. Every child deserves the opportunity to discover their strengths, build their confidence, and realize their potential — Cascade Elite West is proud to be able to provide a valuable platform for achieving these goals!
University of San Diego article referenced: The Benefits of Youth Sports in Child Development
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