Learning management sportingly

A major chunk of my childhood memories are pictures of the pure enjoyment I used to feel while playing cricket and football for hours together with other kids in the neighbourhood. The joy in winning and the disappointment of losing are experiences that leave a lasting impact on any child’s young mind. Sports and games are one of the first teachers to any kid. When a child plays a game, he not only gets to enjoy the excitement associated with the game, but is also unknowingly exposed to numerous lessons that mould and shape his character.

While going through the practice sessions, the child understands the importance of hard work, and how important practice is, in order to achieve success and greatness. He understands that constant practice will ensure perfection in anything one does. It also teaches the child how important it is to deliver the goods on the D-day. No matter what amount of effort might have gone into the preparation for the game, all of it will be futile if one fails to perform to the fullest potential on the day when it matters the most. After a few experiences of failures, the child understands that confidence is a very important trait to have while fighting against equals. He realizes that he needs to be sure of himself and hold the belief that he can win if he wants to actually win.

Most games involve working in teams, and this teaches the child the importance of adjusting with a team, and making collective decisions for the better of the team, rather than take individual decisions. While working in teams, the child understands the importance of trust and understanding that is required within teams to ensure that they combine into a winning unit. The sport also inspires the child to keep trying and working hard until he succeeds in attaining his goal. It also teaches the child the importance of precision and accuracy that is required to attain perfection in anything in life.

In addition to all this, the child learns important lessons in time management. He learns to plan his strategy through the amount of time available; he learns to prioritize the various strategies he has thought of accordingly. He is also exposed to the concept of deadlines, and understands the need to finish the task within the defined time limit. Thus, a child, when he plays a game, is in fact developing a strong character that will help him in times to come, where he is faced with real-life games where he has to win.