Don’t Get Discouraged!

To the parent in the Parent/Tot Gymnastics Class.

If I could tell you one thing it would be “Don’t Get Discouraged!” I often watch the gym during classes, and in almost every parent/tot class I see a parent who looks stressed, tired, and possibly discouraged.  If I could read their minds they would be saying why doesn’t my kid listen, my child doesn’t follow directions, this is too stressful.  I can tell you that this feeling is completely normal.

When these thoughts start to enter your mind take a minute to remember why you signed up for this experience with your child.

Gross Motor Skill Development

Coordination, balance, strength, gross motor skills, and more.  The amount of development kids gain from gymnastics is more than any activity out there for this age.

Introducing them to class structure.

While children at this age are being exposed to structure for eth first time.  It won’t work over night, but by consistently attending a class you are exposing your child to structure will help set them up for success when they enter the classroom.

Learning to follow directions. 

Following directions is tough! Just like above this is usually the first time they are being exposed to taking turns, waiting for their turn, and following directions.  It’s not an easy concept to learn, like sharing, and with exposure and growth they will begin to learn.

Expelling energy!

Children need a safe and fun outlet to expel energy.  Sometimes a great parent/tot class equals a great nap or an early bed time, and that is worth every cent.

50 minutes of uninterrupted time with your child.

In a world of constant communication and distraction having a full 50 minutes with your child is priceless.  Seeing every smile as they run down the trampoline, do their first somersault, or touch their toes to the bar can give you pure joy and excitement.

At the end of the day your child isn’t going to remember what they had for lunch, or that they didn’t listen in gymnastics.  They are going to remember running down the trampoline to you.  They are going to remember you helping them on their forward roll.  They are going to remember that you spent 50 quality minutes focused on them.  Remember that your child is still young.  Remember it’s not perfect.  There are going to be rough days, you will get frustrated, and you will get through them.  Try not to forget the WHY, and you will be rewarded with lots of smiles, laughs, and memories.