Dr.Gupta: For this weeks discussion, let's think about how physical activity affects childhood development. Some parents stress the importance of organized sports, and many young children spend a considerable amount of their time focused on athletics. While organized sports can be beneficial, some people caution that too much emphasis on sports can also be a problem. Before our next class, please use the discussion board to share your thoughts about how sports affect children.

Paul: One benefit is that kids who play team sports spend less of their time using screens. Young children who don't play sports are more likely to spend their time watching television or using computers.Unfortunately,young children who use screens for two or more hours a day are at greater risk for behavioral problems Clearly, kids should be physically active.

Claire: We should balance athletics with other important skills. For example,focusing excessively on organized sports might lead some students to ignore education. While a career as a professional athlete might be lucrative, fewer than 2% of university athletes and far fewer high school athletes make it to a professional team It would be better to balance physical activity with academics.

TEST TAKER'S RESPONSE.

Physical activity, including participation in organized sports, can have a significant impact on childhood development. It offers numerous benefits to children's physical, social, and psychological well-being. Engaging in sports promotes physical fitness, coordination, and motor skills development. Regular physical activity helps reduce the risk of obesity and related health issues, fostering a foundation for a healthy lifestyle. I agree with Paul's view. Children should do sports, instead of wasting their time on things like watching too much television or short videos. I believe that through participating in sports, children learn the value of practice, perseverance, and setting and achieving goals, which are transferable to other areas of life. This is where I think Claire has been a little narrow minded.