With the Paris Olympic Games less than a month away, the determination, camaraderie and sheer physical skill present in elite sport will be on full display.

And while seeing athletes at their peak is a vivid reminder of the many benefits of sport, your child doesn’t have to be a budding Olympian or Paralympian to embrace the positive effects of taking to your nearest pool, track, court or field.

Here are three reasons why making sport a part of daily life from an early age is a winning idea. 

The physical benefits

Sport provides an outlet for excess energy, improved sleep quality and motor skills such as balance and coordination.

It also aids the healthy growth of bones, muscles, ligaments and tendons.

“The physical benefits are quite obvious,” said Sydney Catholic Schools Manager of Sport Declan Donohue.

“The more that students are exercising the less chance they have of getting illnesses or  long-term injuries.”

“Sport is an excellent avenue to expand their social network.” – Declan Donohue

The social benefits

Mr Donohue said the social benefits of sport are sometimes undervalued, and an important part of the sporting experience.

Whether it’s the inclusiveness and cooperation that comes with a team sport, or just another common interest among new friends, sport brings many social advantages.

“At school students can have a small group of friends that they spend a lot of time with,” Mr Donohue said.

“Sport is an excellent avenue for them to expand their social network. 

“School and holiday sport programs in particular give students of all ages an opportunity to meet with others who they may not normally interact with.”

The mental and emotional benefits

The inherent life-lessons in sport can leave young …