From the article: Gymnastics Clubs: Get Your Child Started
Do you have a kid involved in gymnastics? What tips and advice would you give other parents for helping their child in the sport? Share Your Experiences
Parenting Advice: Watch Some Practices
- I have two gymnasts, one an elite, and one a level 10. One major piece of advice I'd give to other parents is to come a little early sometimes for pick up and watch the end of practice. I don't think parents should be too involved: it's important to let it be your kid's sport and to let her tell you about her practice and new skills. But it's also very important to see with your own eyes how your kids and other kids are treated. In my experience, kids are less likely to tell you bad things than good things. If your kid is not being treated well (or not having enough attention paid to them), she might not say anything, but you'll see it for your own eyes. It's all about being an advocate for your kid, and making sure she's at a gym that will help her grow as a kid and as a gymnast. I've been to some great gyms and some bad gyms, and it wasn't until I watched practice that I even knew that the kids weren't being treated with respect at the bad ones.
- —Guest Gym Mom
