Parents play an important role in any Parents & Tots Gymnastics Program
Parents are always a special part of any class with young children, but in honour of Mother’s Day, I thought it was time to give them the extra attention they deserve! I cannot emphasize enough the importance of moms (and dads) when working with young ones, from 18-month-olds all the way up to four-year-olds.
You may watch a child climb a ladder right to the top, but they’re not doing it alone. They’re doing it because they think mom or dad is right there and they feel safe to go, and push themselves, and explore. That’s why whenever I am putting together a Parents and Tots gymnastics program, I always try to remember how important it is to engage the big kids in the room. You may think you’re there to instruct the children, but so much of what you need to do is engage, support and instruct the parents.
Parents as program leaders
It’s wonderful when children listen to their coaches and instructors, but those people are always second in importance to their mom or dad. But sometimes parents feel like these programs are their time to take a step back; you’re the one leading the class after all. But engaging parents, making them an active and important part of every exercise is the sure way to get their little ones excited about what’s happening. For example, it can be hard to keep the really little children off the equipment when you’re trying to play ball games. So instead of asking them to stay focused, ask parents to drive the action, keep their children excited and stimulated on the activity at hand. Some parents may keep a step away from the action because they are unsure of how to participate safely. Take time every program to talk to them about how to spot a child, how to guide them through activities and how to play safely alongside their wee ones.
Mom is the motivator
No parent likes to see their child choosing to sit out or not taking part in an activity. For little children, participation through observation isn’t a bad thing but mom (and dad) can be excellent motivator for them to become part of the action. As soon as they see mom playing, going down the slide or having fun with the group, they will want to be where she (and the action) is!
When you have a room full of little ones and their parents, you have to remember you’re not just there to coach the children. Parents need your reassurance and guidance too!
The best Parent and Tots programs are win-wins for everyone; the kids get to play and develop new skills and the parents get to enjoy the experience and really feel like they’re a part of everything that is happening, both in the room and with their children.
From everyone here at Gymtastics GymTools, we want to wish all the mothers out there a very special Mother’s Day!!
From Darlene “The Bean”
