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Just when I think I got this parenting thing figured out. Just when I think I haven’t missed anything. Just when I think I know all the strengths and weaknesses of my children I realize how much more there is to learn. It has actually been through my children participating in sports, more specifically wrestling, that I have been able to find opportunities to be a better father and to teach them some life skills.
My children were in a soccer league not too long ago but I didn’t see as many opportunities as I have with wrestling. It might be because I am assisting with the coaching duties so I am much more involved. Or it might be the a result of the sport of wrestling itself. Either way it has been a growing experience for both myself and my children.
My Son
As my son began wrestling I found out quickly that I never taught him some of the basic tumbling skills most young children can do like somersaults and cartwheels. I never showed him how to do a proper sit up or push ups. This is due to the fact that I am severely out of shape.
I didn’t brace him for the amount of physical contact he was about to encounter through wrestling. This was probably due to the fact that I am rarely rough with him and that he has never really wrestled around with anyone other than myself.
I also had to emphasis to my son that I didn’t care if he won or lost in wrestling. I just wanted to see him try hard and not give up. I think that once he knew I really meant that, he didn’t get down on himself after losing.
When it is all said and done I just want him to enjoy the experience and come back next year.
My Daughter
My daughter never ceases to amaze me with her determination and her toughness. Over the past couple of months she has held her own with the boys as there are only a hand full of girls wrestling.
Since I typically stay in the area where my son is wrestling my daughter doesn’t get the attention from me like she deserves. I had to tell my daughter quickly that the reason I wasn’t with her in the practice room as much was because 5 year olds need quite a bit of attention to keep them engaged. She understood but I knew she wanted the same attention. I in turn would make sure to check on her to make sure she was ok and didn’t have any questions.
If she decides to stick with wrestling I think she will be quite good. With that being said she made sure to tell me that she wants to try many different sports. I guess only time will tell if she wants to do this sport again after the season is over.
Wrestling has provided an environment to know my children better, spend more time with my children, and to be a better father. I am very thankful for the opportunity.
Is there a sport or activity that has brought you closer to your children? Be sure to share your experiences in the comment section.
Thanks for reading,
Andrew
