Support Your Children’s Activities
Most parents typically have their kids involved in some sort of activity, whether it’s the arts, sports or other community events. While some children have a natural ability, they really flourish when they have their parents’ support. This means showing up to games or performances and cheering them on. You don’t have to be the helicopter dad yelling at the referee, and it’s preferable that you’re not, but your simple presence is often more than enough. If you’re not sure where to get started, here are just a few ways you can support your children’s activities or passions.
Diving Into the Arts
The arts are a great way to instill culture, and there are a multitude of activities that fall under this umbrella. It can include actual artistic works involving paints, clay, pottery or charcoal to name a few, or musical lessons, whether it’s learning to play an instrument or taking vocal classes. While many kids can learn to draw or play an instrument in school, there are specialty schools for one-on-one instruction or you can find a private tutor in your area if they showcase exceptional talent.
Theater is another good way to broaden your child’s horizons. Acting, playing music and set design are just a few ways to get involved. Many large cities have theaters or community centers, but if you live in a smaller town or rural area, you might find the opportunity through a local church or have to travel to a nearby city or town. The effort, however, is worth it.
Sports — Play Ball!
When it comes to sports, there are many avenues your kids can take, regardless of gender. Starting them out at a young age definitely gives them an advantage, but sometimes natural skill overshines years of dedication. That’s why some kids who start later than others end up progressing further as an athlete.
If your child has a natural ability and skill to progress further than high school and college athletics, you’ll want to do your research. Sports recruiting agencies such as Field Level can give your child access to resources to seek out a pro or semi-pro career. It can also help educate you, as a parent, on what to expect during the recruiting process and securing an agent.
Keep in mind that if your child has their heart set on going pro, they’ll need to practice much more often. They’ll also need to keep up to date on equipment and maybe even join a few leagues, which is often more expensive, but a valuable investment.
Dance and Gymnastics
Dance and gymnastics are two activities that really call for dedication as they require muscle memory in order to progress to the next level in their education. The good thing with these two activities, though, is that there are several different types your children can participate in. For example, dance has tap, ballet, jazz and hip hop while gymnastics has the balance beam, uneven bars and floor exercises.
How to Approach Your Child’s Desire to Quit
Sometimes, no matter how much effort your child puts into their activity, it’s simply not enough to keep them interested, and that’s okay. Before you sign them up, sit them down and talk about what you expect in terms of dedication and trying, and how you’d like them to broach the idea of quitting. While you may feel a bit of disappointment, it’s necessary to support your child in their endeavors as much as you can.
Regardless of which type of activity your child engages in, your support in your children’s activities is the cornerstone. Cheer them on, take them to practices regularly and keep your phone away, unless it’s to take pictures for bragging rights, of course.
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