The Importance of Physical Activity and Sports in Child Development

Childhood is the fastest period of development after infancy. The gains acquired in this process are the basis of the attitudes and behaviors that individuals will exhibit in their later ages. In particular; mental, cognitive and spiritual developments are important during this period. Movement is one of the factors that support this process and it directly affects healthy growth and physical development. Today’s technological advances have caused individuals to prefer a more sedentary life, and this new lifestyle has affected children. However, children are designed to act and they are happy to behave in this way. In this study, the effects of physical activity and sport on child development were investigated. In this study, a descriptive method was carried out in terms of child development and participation in physical and sports activities in childhood period. The researches have shown that physical activity and sports provide valuable contributions to children’s self-confidence, to recognize their bodies, to socialize, to explore the world and to their healthy growth and development. In conclusion, the research aimed to emphasize the importance of physical activity and sport in terms of cognitive, mental and spiritual development of children