Effect of An Intentionally Structured Kids’ Athletics Program on Teamwork And Resilience in Elementary School Children

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the effects of an intentionally structured Kids’ Athletics program on cooperation and resilience among elementary school children. An experimental study using a pretest–posttest control group design was conducted with 30 children aged 11 years. The program consisted of 12 sessions and was intentionally structured to promote the development of these life skills. Cooperation and resilience were measured before and after the intervention using the Life Skills Scale for Sport (LSSS), comprising seven cooperation items and five resilience items. Data were analyzed using paired-samples t-tests. The results showed greater improvements in the experimental group than in the control group. The experimental group demonstrated significant changes in cooperation (from 23.7 to 29, p < 0.001) and resilience (from 16.2 to 21.7, p < 0.001). In contrast, changes in the control group were not significant (p = 0.83 for cooperation and p = 0.61 for resilience). Through the program, children had opportunities to collaborate, share roles, overcome challenges, and persevere in the face of failure. In conclusion, an intentionally structured Kids’ Athletics program may serve as an effective approach to supporting the development of cooperation and resilience among elementary school children.