| As parents it is in our nature to protect our children. | | | | other responsibilities as well. For example if you set |
| Sometimes though we find that our sense of | | | | guidelines that they can only skateboard after their |
| adventure and free spirit we were once well known | | | | homework and chores are done, they will be done |
| for is non existent at that point in our lives. What | | | | right after school. This way your child can get outside |
| happens is that we often view the worst case | | | | to enjoy the daylight that is left on their skateboard. |
| scenarios and apply them to our children. We love | | | | Imagine not having to spend the evening arguing |
| them so much that we end up holding them back | | | | anymore about getting homework assignments done |
| instead of encouraging them in certain things. | | | | or putting away their laundry! |
| It is no secret that the sport of skateboarding has a | | | | You can also set guidelines about where they can |
| bad reputation. We too often hear about kids getting | | | | ride their skateboard. You may be fine with them |
| seriously injured in it. However, those that have the | | | | going to the local skate park or just hanging out |
| right equipment to ride on as well as properly fitting | | | | down the block with friends. If you don't want them |
| safety equipment are less likely to fall into that | | | | skating in certain areas then you need to discuss that |
| category. Sure, they are going to get some minor | | | | with your child. They will be more open to |
| bumps and bruises but that is common for children no | | | | compromise than you think, especially if they thought |
| matter what types of activities they take part in. | | | | you were just going to say no to the entire concept |
| You wouldn't allow your child to play football without | | | | of them riding a skateboard. |
| pads and a helmet so make sure they have what | | | | Granted, it can be difficult to let go of your fears |
| they need while skateboarding as well. | | | | when it comes to your child and skateboarding. |
| Parents should be involved in the decision for their | | | | However, if you have provided them with guidelines |
| children to skateboard. However, you need to have a | | | | and well as the safety equipment they need then |
| very open mind about it instead of immediately | | | | there isn't really any reason to worry so much. The |
| letting your fears take control. Find out why they are | | | | alternative is that they will try skateboarding with |
| interested in skateboarding. They may try it for a | | | | friends when they are out of your sight without |
| while and find it isn't something they wish to pursue. | | | | those things, and that places them at a much higher |
| Other children though will want to do it all the time | | | | risk of being injured. |
| and even compete in various types of competition. | | | | Instead of letting fear get the best of you, be |
| You can use their passion for skateboarding to help | | | | supportive of your child's interest in this sport. |
| with many things. For example they will be developing | | | | Encourage them to practice and take the time to |
| skills such as patience and learning the value of | | | | watch them perform the skills that they have learned |
| practicing when it comes to mastering something | | | | for you. They will take pride in their efforts and you |
| that they are interested in. These are skills that can | | | | can show them that while you may not have chose |
| carry over to many areas of their life now and as | | | | that sport yourself, you are always going to be there |
| adults. | | | | to support what they take an interest in. |
| They may be encouraged to follow through with | | | | |