How Sports Changed My Son’s Life and Mine Too

My experience in convincing my son to practice sports was truly positive. Together, we achieved success. That’s why I wanted to share it with you — so you can benefit as well.

This journey helped transform my son’s world. His habits changed, his physique developed, and his emotional state became calmer and more open. His circle of friends expanded, both at the sports club and school, and he grew more social and connected. What mattered to me most — and used to keep me up at night — was seeing his concentration improve, which led to real academic success.

The Situation with Kareem

During school vacations, Kareem used to:

Stay in bed after waking up, glued to his phone or sitting in front of a screen.
Call his friends after breakfast to find somewhere to hang out and pass the time.

I stood helpless, wondering:

How can I change this routine?
How do I fill his time with something meaningful?
How do I convince him that sports can be a door to change — psychologically, physically, socially, and academically?

The Turning Point

I began to notice:

Kareem was often tense and easily agitated.
He had trouble concentrating.
He avoided family gatherings and returned home tired, despite doing nothing physically demanding.

Deep down, I knew the issue partially stemmed from me. I hadn’t guided him during these idle holiday times. Later, I realized sports were the answer — but where should I start?

Movement Awakens the Mind

I decided to begin with full intention and a scientific mindset so that my son could truly feel the difference. I started reading about how sports impact children’s free time and academic life.

I learned that physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, enhancing focus and improving mood. So I took small steps:

Played ball with him in the yard.
Suggested short races between him and his father.
Danced with him to music at home.

Gradually, I saw a change:

He became more alert and aware.

His sleep improved, and he woke up full of energy.

Activity as Natural Medicine

I noticed a remarkable shift:

No more random body aches or complaints of laziness.
His muscles became stronger.
His immunity improved.

From my continued reading, I learned that doctors emphasize how sports:

Strengthen bones and muscles.
Improve heart and lung function.
Reduce risks of obesity, diabetes, and even stress from long hours of sitting.

The Psychological Shift

We began walking together to the supermarket every morning — it seemed small but was the beginning of a bigger transformation. The most powerful shift was psychological:

Kareem laughed more.
He started confronting his fears.
His voice changed — clearer, more confident.

Sports Reduce Stress — and Build Confidence

Yes, sports reduce anxiety and improve overall mood. But more than that, they build a child’s confidence through even the smallest achievements — scoring a goal, jumping farther, joining a team.

In Kareem’s case, sports helped him rediscover himself.

Even after the holidays ended, our journey didn’t stop. In fact, it only got better. I had feared that team practices might interfere with schoolwork, but the opposite happened.

So What Did I Do?

With patience and planning:

I made exercise part of Kareem’s daily routine.
His academic performance improved.
His teacher told me his focus had increased and his behavior was more disciplined.

I also discovered that physical activity:

Doesn’t just boost grades…
It reduces school absences and strengthens problem-solving skills.

The Bigger Change: Social Life

The most profound transformation was in Kareem’s social life. He wasn’t very outgoing before. But after joining the football team at the club and school, I started hearing new names every week — new friends, new stories.

Sports taught him:

Teamwork and discipline.
How to respect rules.
How to manage his anger.

Group sports gave him a healthy space to build real friendships and self-esteem.

As I say now: Sports shape character, not just muscles.

A Proud Moment

Yes, it wasn’t always easy. I had to manage his time wisely:

One hour for study.
One for sports.
One for rest.

Sometimes I stepped in; other times I let him choose — to avoid resistance or rebellion.

A mother should lead wisely and inspire, not pressure.

This journey changed me too.

I ran with him, cheered for him, packed his training bag, and smiled even when he lost a match.

I was his number one supporter — and believer.

At the end, I showed his photo holding a small trophy he won with his team.

What can I say?

Sports transformed us both.

Kareem became more balanced and resilient, and I became more patient.

Now, sports are no longer just a hobby — they’re a daily habit, and a source of strength for both of us.

What Do Sports Offer a Child?

According to Dr. Farida Al-Alaily, professor of mental health:

They strengthen the body and heart.
Improve flexibility and stamina.
Boost appetite for healthy foods.
Enhance focus and mental skills.
Build self-esteem and leadership.
Teach children how to socialize and behave.
Prevent social isolation and introversion.

“A healthy mind lives in a healthy body.”