The child has a natural ability and the circuit style classes were a breeze for her. She would get impatient waiting for her turn. She would jump off the beam and bypass kids who were struggling with balance. The classes didn't move quickly enough and didn't offer enough variety to keep her intrigued. Of course, this resulted in her not doing what she was supposed to be doing. Suddenly she'd morph in to a T-Rex in the middle of class and she'd be stomping around with her short arms, and two fingered claws out and Rrrraaarrr'ing at everyone. It was a struggle for me to watch and definitely a struggle for the teacher.
After begging to do gymnastics again, I thought we should let her try and so I signed her up (again) for a class at the YMCA. Much to my surprise, this class, filled with older pre-schoolers, clips along at a pace that keeps Cam interested. The circuits are harder, and once one skill is achieved a new one is presented. They don't wait for the whole class to get it, they teach more to each child....ahhhh.
Last night I had the pleasure of watching my nearly 5 1/2 year old beam on the beam as she accomplished a forward roll (with help of course). I smiled from ear to ear when she waved at me for my attention and approval and when she would shout "Watch this Momma!" from across the gym.
In the car on our drive home she said, "I am so proud of myself." "As well you should be, you did a fantastic job!" I don't know if she'll want to continue with gymnastics for the longer term or not, but for now, I'm celebrating the fact that she loves it, and that she looks forward to her classes, and that she is proud of herself. There are few gifts greater in life than self-esteem and self-confidence.
Feel free to link up your Something Good for the week with LeeAnn.
7 comments:
Yay for a class that works for her! Hopefully she will stick with it. And a BIG YAY for self confidence! It is so good to see kids proud of their accomplishments. Way to go Cam!
I REALLY want to put Rylie in gymnastics, but I still think she is too young. After that soccer debacle, it just scares me. LOL
Great work doing a forward roll on the beam! We did gymnastics too and after a few lessons my daughter got bored too. She was really good at it also. It is so funny Carol, but I signed my daughter up for horse camp also this summer! She is so excited! She will probably do her birthday at the place also. It is like the two are kindred spirits. Have a great day my friend!
Mama Hen
You must be so proud of Cam!! I am so glad that she finally found a place where she fits in and can actually enjoy gymnastics!! Sometimes waiting a little while is all worth it :)
That's so great! Congrats to both of you for finding something she loves.
I'm glad you found a class that works for her! It sounds like she loved it!
I am loving that Camdyn is a little gymnast. I was a gymnast for about 10 years! Competed and did the whole bit. It's a great sport. But I might be a little biased. lol :)
Congrats - You must be so proud...
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