Did you know that the sport of gymnastics develops physical skills such as body control, coordination, and strength? Gymnastics also allows children to experience self-confidence through creativity and performance and lays a strong foundation for all other future sports that a child might play or express interest in. In honor of National Gymnastics Day, I wanted to share some of the long-lasting benefits that can come from getting a child involved in gymnastics early and how that translates to life skills that will assist them in becoming well-rounded people.
- Gymnastics Develops the Whole Child: In Parent/Child or Preschool Gymnastics classes, children are learning how to listen, follow directions, and even take turns. In older Preschool and Grade School Gymnastics classes, children are learning how to respect one another, work as a team, and celebrate other children’s victories, not simply their own.
- Gymnastics Builds Confidence: Gymnastics can help to develop self-confidence and self-esteem. It gives the child an opportunity to learn to love and value themselves just the way they are. As kids develop new gymnastics skills, they are activating rapid cognitive development through their understanding, application, proficiency, and mastery of the skills.
- Gymnastics Enhances Physical Development: Physical development includes things like strength, flexibility, coordination, balance and body control, all while laying a strong foundation for a healthy habit of physical fitness throughout a child’s lifetime.
- Gymnastics Can Help Frame a Routine: Consistent, scheduled extracurricular activities help children anticipate what will happen next. This provides a sense of security, control, and confidence. For young children, involvement in extracurricular activities also provides structure to prepare them for school and beyond.
- Gymnastics Fosters Skill Development: Participating in extracurricular activities allows children to explore new interests and skills, which allows them to room to discover what they are passionate about. This could be an affinity for a specific sport, playing an instrument, or even an interest in art. Developing new skills, and discovering those you like, continue to build self-confidence and self-esteem within children.
The sport of gymnastics provides an opportunity for children to acquire not just physical skills, but social and emotional skills that will be a compass for their future. It’s a sport that truly benefits the whole child. And FYI: You can help celebration National Gymnastics Day this Saturday, September 21st!
