As parents, we all want our kids to provide opportunities and place them in an environment where they grow, develop, and excel.
But sometimes, we face challenges, and things go differently than planned.
When I grew up, learning differences or difficulties among my peers at school were frowned upon, and a stigma was placed on kids that struggled with learning.
But one area where kids with learning differences can excel is in sports. Sport has always been an opportunity to help kids focus, learn and boost their confidence.
You will be surprised by the list of athletes with learning differences. Lakers and Basketball Legend Magic Johnson had dyslexia. Michael Phelps, the most decorated Olympian, and swimmer, was diagnosed with ADHD, and NBA Basketball Player Brandon Knight has visual and processing issues.
Despite their challenges, they excelled in their lives and careers away from the courts and swimming pool.
Learning differences should not be seen as handicaps but means that some kids' brains work differently than others. They don't learn in typical ways. They learn differently.
Working with big groups may prove challenging for coaches, but they must be patient, give one direction at a time, write multiple rules on their workout plan, slow down the conversation, get to the point, and use visual aids.
Sports allow kids with learning differences to be part of a team and a sense of inclusiveness. Being part of a team will allow kids with learning differences to make friends, feel part of the community, and contribute to the overall quality of life.
Kids diagnosed with learning differences may experience self-esteem due to their challenges. Sports will allow them to raise their self-confidence and, through positive coaching, can give them the belief they can achieve high standards.
Sports will teach them resilience and allow them to build their character.
Many kids with learning differences may have high levels of hyperactivity and be more impulsive than their peers. The self-control lessons taught through sports can teach kids with learning difficulties to manage and handle their emotions positively.
Choosing the right sports for kids can make all the difference in boosting their focus, self-esteem, and mood. Here is a list of sports that can help those kids with learning differences:
Swimming - Gives kids with ADHD structure and guidance.
Martial Arts - Teaches respect, discipline, and perseverance.
Gymnastics - Increases focus and overall awareness
Rugby - Promotes inclusiveness and teamwork.
Wrestling - A positive way to channel emotions
Despite being diagnosed with Learning Differences, kids can still find a way to engage in sports and reap its many benefits. As the world becomes more inclusive, more opportunities and options will become available.
Participating in sports will help kids develop critical soft skills that are useful as they grow up.
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