As life begins to return to some semblance of normalcy, one thing that most parents are looking forward to is engaging their children in activities outside the home again. If you are considering signing your child up for competitive gymnastics and wondering if they can take the pressure, take heart. Kids are miraculous little creatures who tend to rise to the occasion. Competition is both necessary and healthy if approached with the right attitude and guidance. These are just some of the benefits they will gain.
Independence
It is really hard as a parent to step back and let your child do their own thing. The last thing you want to do is see them fail. However, failing is a part of learning and growing. When you sign them up for competitive gymnastics, they gain the independence of doing something and finding the strength to stand on their own two feet without having to lean on you. It is an amazing thing to see your child excel all on their own through hard work. And that is what you will see when competition day comes around!
Self-Confidence
Nothing is more nerve-wracking than being exposed in front of a crowd – except for being responsible for contributing to a team’s win or loss. Your child will learn to do well on their own and how their actions affect the whole. In the process, they will gain a sense of self-confidence that is difficult to learn if you don’t ever try to stand out and be the center of attention.
Teamwork
One of the indicators of future success for adults is how well they can work and get along with others. There are times when you are going to shine, and other times you’ll have to be a spectator cheering on a teammate. Experiencing both is part of being on a competitive gymnastics team. Your child will learn that the only way for a team to win is to do your best to foster themselves, while also supporting others to do the same.
Physical Strength
One of the most obvious things that children gain from competitive gymnastics is physical strength. There aren’t many sports that teach core training, agility, balance, strength, and power like gymnastics. It is a very difficult practice because it takes both inner and outer strength. And it also takes dedication to continue to try, try again, and find new ways to make yourself stronger.
Commitment
One of the greatest qualities that any person can have is perseverance, which is the ability to look at hardship and feel challenged instead of defeated. When you are involved with competitive gymnastics, there is no such thing as giving up. Making a commitment to others and knowing that they rely on you strengthens your responsibility to those around you. Committing to something takes dedication, focus, and unwavering resolve.
If you are considering signing your child up for competitive gymnastics and are worried that they might not be able to stand the heat, fear not! At Tapio School of Dance, we nurture every child who walks through our door. Our goal is not to be number one as much as it is to bring out the very best in every team member through support, instruction, concern, and encouragement. Sign your child up today at Tapio School of Dance and realize all the benefits that can come from bringing out your child’s inner best.