Topic : Sports and Kids

Jetta,

I do not understand where your defensiveness comes from.  I never said or implied they were missing anything.  I was trying to say you don't really know what they like until they try something.  For example,  your daughter's interest in art/music came from somewhere.  Without that exposure (wherever it came from) she may not have the interest she does now.  Seems to me you have issues and for that I'm sorry.  Yes, it does seem from these boards you are very overprotective but you've made it clear you like it that way.  That's OK but don't expect everyone to agree.  You have mentioned that is doesn't bother you but it's obvious that it does or you wouldn't lash out like you do.  I know we have different opinions on a lot of things but you don't seem to even want to listen to anyone but yourself talk about children.  Despite what you think and your schooling, you are not always right.  My children are a few years older and they are boys so my parenting experience is very different from yours.  Sports are a great tool for a lot of reasons.  Maybe you don't want your girls playing because you're scared they might get hurt.  Been there, done that.  My older son plays goalie and let me tell you I can't hardly watch sometimes!  But, HE loves it and wants to do it.  How dare you think all kids who play sports are pushed-again shows your naivete in this area!  I think for all of us are children are a high priority in the home so you statement is really obnoxious "my kids are a very high prioroy in my home and their daddy and I have the desire for them to be happy and fullfilled.."

"There is nothing missing my girls life and for that I am thankful."

Why do you get like this?  I specifically came to this board figuring I would never see you on here and guess what?  Here you are...talking about something that you are not going through.  You do this a lot and I wonder why.  Generally, when people ask advice (you have to be careful they are asking not just venting) they typically want strategies from others who have been through something similar.  They don't want to hear your life story over and over.  Most parents  who are truly confident in their styles and beliefs do not need to go into this type of forum and repeatedly talk about it to everyone.  I think it's safe to say that most of us are pretty "alert and open" to our kids wants/needs.   My kids are not missing anything either playing sports.  In fact, I think they are gaining skills they can use later in life. A lot of parents who participate in sports feel this way.  That's what THIS board is about...sports and kids.  If you are not experiencing this yet for whatever reason, that is OK, too.  You don't have to be involved and give advice on every child-related topic out there to prove you are a good parent. 

I think that for the most part, children participating in any type of sporting activity is a very productive and esteem building tool.

My children had NO choice when they were 2 -3 years old and I enrolled them in swimming lessons.  No these lessons aren't considered a sport, yet can evolve as such if they so desire.

No different for me was to enroll them in ice skating programs at that age.  I feel it is a valuable thing to be able to skate without the fear of injury. 

Same goes for learning to ride a two wheel bicycle........it's a very real part of most children's lives in society.  If they develop a deeper interest in pursuing any of these activities on a competitive level.  I strongly encourage it.

Swimming is so important..............may save their life one day.  It's a shame how many children do not know how to swim.  Cycling and ice skating (here in Canada) is more of a social aspect among children.  If a child reaches school age and does not know how to do these tasks, they are often teased about their lack of ability.

Sad but true.

Now for full out contact sports.........well personally I don't like the idea of kick boxing, boxing or any other sport that requires a head injury ( knock out)........that I feel is just wrong.

Yet my kids all play contact ice hockey, contact football, rugby, baseball.........and a variety of other sports.

Contact in many sports are not to cause harm or injury, yet it does occur often.  Even in non contact sports........gymnastics, track and field etc........ even dance, often result in injury.

I say expose your children to the possibilities..........so long as they are having fun and building their self confidence they are onto a very healthy thing.

We owe it to our children to allow them to explore the possibilities..........I think that there is a sport available for just about every child, barring those with disabilities etc.

If a sport is no longer fun for the child, then I think the parent needs to reassess...........the why's?

Is it due to a pushy parent..........looking for a superstar professional?  A closed minded and harsh coach that is like a drill sergeant?

It should be about enjoyment for the child...........which in turn leads to enhanced self esteem and physical fitness.

Fredi