Gymnastics and Your Child

Gymnastics, it speaks to the most basic of childhood fun, tumbling. Kids get the opportunity to run; jump, tumble and swing, all activities that help them build a healthy body and a strong sense of their personal physical ability.

There are some concerns for children who get into the sport early however if a parent understands the limitations at each age a child can have a fun and rewarding time throughout their growth years and well into high school.

A child can enter gymnastics as early as 2 years old. At this age the child is learning their coordination skills so this is the perfect time to orient them into the world of tumbling. Children who are 2-4 can learn the simple activities such as the right way to fall and how to somersault properly. At this age it is about the very basics but at the same time this is when a good gymnastics instructor will instill the concept of fun also. So many times kids get into the competitive world of the sport and lose the fun. It is important for children to have sense of why they are doing the gymnastics in the first place at this point; they will carry this with them throughout the time they take part in the sport.

Children in the ages of 5-8 are in that sense of adventure mode and can be a lot of fun to have in a gymnastic class. They are little dare devils at this point and afraid of nothing. Kids at this age are ready and willing to try anything thus making this a time when instructors can relly grab a hold of the child's willingness and teach them the things that they will be afraid to even try later on.

As a child grows gymnastics takes on a different feel. At ages 9-13 children are coming into their own personalities and peer pressure is becoming an issue. Being involved in a sport such as gymnastics allows a child to learn how to be a team member while still allowing them the space to compete individually. It is the perfect personality growth sport since it allows for growth in all areas. Being a part of a gymnastic "team" at this point will help a child to "fit in".

As children reach puberty life takes on a whole new meaning and a sport like gymnastics is perfect for the confusion that accompanies ages 14-16. Kids at this age are worried about what their friends think but they are also becoming aware of their bodies. Being involved in gymnastics provides the adolescent teen with an outlet for their emotions but also a way to exercise. Obesity in children is currently on the rise so it is doubly important to ensure that your child is in a program that will keep them active, both in mind and body.

Gymnastics can be a wonderful activity for your child to carry with them throughout their young lives. Lessons such as teamwork and good exercise routines are good not only for their younger years but will also come in handy when they reach adulthood.