Thursday 18 May 2017

Sporting Classes, Why I think they're important

There are so many different sports classes out there for children of all ages, it can be overwhelming choosing which ones to attend, whether that be one you go to with your child or one they attend alone. Sometimes attending classes with your child may feel daunting or scary, especially if you are shy and find meeting new people difficult.
That is the first reason I think starting going to any class from an early age is a really positive part of your child growing up. As well as the obvious added fitness and health benefits, It's a great opportunity to meet new people both for you and your child. Children of young ages can develop social skills which are valuable when it comes to them starting nursery or school.


Lily currently takes part in Ballet and Highland dancing, we have narrowed it down to these two as she has decided these are the two she wants to do seriously. Previously she has tried gymnastics and swimming- she will continue with swimming after the Summer Holidays.
Trying a variety of groups from a young age is a good idea, both you and your child can get an idea of what they will enjoy, and those they may not enjoy as much.
Once you have decided on an activity (or two) that your child wants to do I think it is very important that your child sticks to it/them. This may mean encouraging them to keep going once the initial excitement has worn off, but by getting them to persevere and at least continue to attend until the end of that block or term not only teaches resilience but also teaches them that in life just because things become difficult or hard work it does not mean you can or should just give up. These classes often cost money which is another reason a child should not just drop out half way through a term- on the other hand if they really, get to dislike their hobby for a genuine reason you can discuss this and listen to their reasons and come to a decision together.
Sport, including dancing is a great way to keep fit, as well as this it teaches them a huge variety of life skills including: team work, gross and fine motor skills, coordination, confidence, spatial awareness, the ability to persevere and the feeling of achievement.





The improvement in Lily's motor skills and spatial awareness since starting both Ballet and Highland dancing a year ago is massive, when she first started Ballet she didn't know how to skip, she is now doing Pre-primary ballet as well as five year olds. Not only is there an obvious physical improvement but Lily's confidence has grown massively. She completed a highland dancing exam in December and passed, the sense of pride and achievement was massive.


Lily with her highland dancing awards


Lily has recently been told she is at a level where she can begin to compete in Highland Dancing and she is so excited to begin, she attends highland dancing twice a week and ballet once and she loves both and spends the entire week asking if its a ballet or highland day!




I'd love to hear what sports or activities your children get up to.
Thanks for reading
Danielle
x


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