There is an adage which goes as 'all work and no play makes Jack, a dull boy'. Many times we have heard this idiom in our lives, but I do not think that such sayings changed our priorities much. When it comes to education versus sports, in a typical Sri Lankan home front, education wins hands down every time.
However, what we have forgotten is, that there is no need to have a 'versus' part in this debate. Physical activity can be easily incorporated into the education curriculum without restricting or interrupting the student's studies. In fact, it has been scientifically proven that children who are actively involved in any kind of a sport or a physical activity excel better in education than those who do not.
As a school with an excellent academic and sports history, the Colombo International School [CIS] has produced some of the best athletes in Sri Lanka who also stand out in their studies as well. In order to get a professional view on how these children maintained the balance between the studies and sports, the Sunday Times met Mr. James Kennedy - the Sports Coordinator at CIS.
Mr. Kennedy explained that while most parents feel that academic studies are extremely important and that the children should not 'waste' their valuable time on sports and other physical activity, a number of research studies have proven that there is a direct link between academic subjects and physical activity. For a child to have good brain power to comprehend the subject matter, it is essential that he stays alert and focused. By following physical activities, the brain function, energy levels, fitness levels increase and enables the children to tackle their studies confidently. This definitely amplifies their self esteem and confidence as well.
At CIS, the value of this theory has been properly comprehended and is given its due. The school offers 14 extracurricular clubs which have increased the opportunities and variety that a student can choose from and participate in, be it a team sport or an individual exercise session. Mr. Kennedy said that the students have welcomed this change with such enthusiasm that well over 100 students either come to school early or stay back to participate in these physical activities. He explained that, as the students utilize the time that is outside the normal school hours, their usual study periods are not getting affected in any way.
It is very important for a child to have a healthy mind and a healthy body. The parents should understand that a child needs both these aspects and look whether he or she is getting enough opportunities. CIS has understood that it is very important to remember that a healthy body leads to a healthy mind and the students are provided with the best facilities to excel in sports as well as education. Many of the CIS students are actively involved in sports activities at a national level and they have an impressive academic record as well.
This is particularly important when Sports is valued criteria be it for scholarships, higher education or for entry into the corporate world. Therefore it is the duty of the parent and the school to see that their children are given the best possible opportunities to have a balanced life in order to grow to be confident and well educated citizens.
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