Whether your children have recently enrolled in gymnastic classes or have been practicing the sport for a few years, there are many ways to encourage their hobby further and provide support. The following are three tips for boosting your kids’ excitement and skill at gymnastics.
How to Support Your Young Gymnast
1. Encourage Your Children to Persevere
No matter the sport, children may feel frustrated if they don’t think they’re progressing as quickly as they want to. Remind your child that strength comes through perseverance, and every athlete will feel challenged at some point. Talk to them about their concerns and ask them how you can help.
2. Facilitate Fun With the Team
Join forces with other parents to plan get-togethers for the children outside of gymnastics class. Host a pool party or sleepover. Take them out for ice cream after practice. These activities allow your child to bond with their teammates outside of the gym. They’ll know there is more to the sport than just winning competitions, and they’ll feel supported by their friends.
3. Grow a Well-Balanced Identity
Focusing only on their gymnast career can place unnecessary pressure and stress on your child to perform, causing them to burn out quickly. Make sure they have time to see friends, participate in extracurricular activities, or even try out for another sport. Your child is more likely to stick with gymnastics when they feel it’s a choice rather than an inclusive aspect of their life.
For more advice on encouraging your children in gymnastics, talk with the coaches at IMPACT Gymnastics Academy. This Phoenix, AZ, children’s gymnastics gym offers Olympic-class coaching and state-of-the-art equipment to train children effectively, plus a parent-centric philosophy, to equally support the athletes’ parents. Call (602) 870-7574 to schedule a free trial or visit the website for a full list of gymnastic classes.