Play it safe on the floor

As a mom to a cheerleader, I sometimes cannot help but worry about her getting injured. Once she came home with a bruise on the lips, the other time a sprained ankle and so on. I try to be strong but deep inside, I am concerned. Good thing she’s not a flyer — the person the goes up in the air during a stunt — or I’d probably die of heart attack watching her.

I always remind her to play it safe. Prevention is better than cure. It includes knowing the rules of the game and using the proper equipment and gears. I have provided her with support braces for her wrist since she lifts and ankle to support her balance. Good thing there a lot brands available in the market such as aircast hand and wrist support.

When she complains about these injuries, I try to be a mom and show my concern while being strong by saying that if it really hurts then she will have to stop. The latter one I guess is not an option for her at the moment. Her passion for this endeavor is quite commendable for a girl her age.

Well, this is just me being worry wart. I can’t help it … I’m a MOM!

Encouraging kids to engage in Sports

I must admit I was never a sports person mainly because I was not exposed to it. Now that I am an adult, the only sport I know is bowling.

With my kids, we try to encourage them to engage in sports. I have seen the benefits of sports especially among children. Participating in sports does not only enhance their physical abilities but it’s an avenue for them to develop their social skills and mental abilities.

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL BENEFITS. Having a sports activity is an excellent way to become physically fit. Playing sports develops and strengthens muscles and teaches them to become more aware of their body. Having a positive body image makes children more conscious about what they eat thus promoting a healthier lifestyle.

INTERPERSONAL SKILLS. Sports teach children how to interact with other people which will be an advantage to them when they grow up especially in the workforce. It hones their ability to work with people and act as a team. Moreover, it gives them a sense of accomplishment which boosts their self confidence.  Sports can indeed play a vital role in developing a child’s social well-being.

MENTAL DEVELOPMENT. As a parent, I have seen how sports have developed my children mental maturity exposing them to what the “real world” is — that you cannot predict its outcome however you need to accept it. During competitions, everyone cannot be a winner and I have seen them accept failures however hard it may be.  It is not always about winning, the most important is that you have taken part in the activity and have given it your best shot.  Success is not measured by the medals and awards you have received but in the ability to gain experience and absorb all learnings you have acquired through these failures. Failures thus opens the door for success, it’s a matter of how you deal with it. Playing sports is an avenue for children to be emotionally and mentally mature; it teaches them to deal with the strains of life.

~~~

Green Earth Tip: Be more practical in practicing golf by recycling golf ball. You can check out sites that offer used golf balls. This way you can help save our Earth’s resources.