Olympics can teach kids 6 great lessons
Use this time to get children interested in exercising and goals.
The Winter Olympics bring families together as they cheer on the athletes. They’re also a great time for parents to share valuable lessons with kids.
“I encourage parents to use the Olympics as a time to get kids interested in exercising, learning about goals and talking about winning and losing,” says Lora Scott, MD, medical director of sports medicine at Dayton Children’s.
Dr. Scott offers six valuable Olympic lessons parents can share with their children:
1. Bundle up and wear protective gear. The Winter Olympics look mighty cold and athletes are bundled with layers. Parents can point out to kids that most of the athletes are wearing bright clothing — like they should be in the cold weather! Point out how athletes are wearing the right equipment to protect themselves- helmets, knee pads, shoulder pads and goggles!
2. Sportsmanship. Not everyone wins, although it would be nice for athletes to bring home a medal! Children should learn how they can compete like winners and still treat their fellow athletes with respect. Show kids when the competitors shake hands with the other athletes and show respect to the officials and others. Kids learn sportsmanship basics from the adults in their lives, especially parents and coaches –set a good example!
3. Diversity and acceptance. We all interact with people of differing ethnicities, religions and cultures. The Olympics is a great opportunity to help kids learn about others and their cultures. Share fun facts about competing countries and the athlete’s cultural practices. Encourage your kids to ask questions and start conversations on other cultures and the importance of learning about others without judgment.
4. The importance of
rest. Some Olympics athletes will get hurt. Talk about the importance of rest after a sports injury. Athletes always want to get right back into their sport. However it is important for all athletes, especially kids, to allow time to heal properly before returning in order to perform at their best.
5. The right fuel. Olympic athletes eat very differently than the average person. However, now’s a great opportunity to talk about the importance of exercise and a healthy diet. Explain that children need to take care of their bodies if they want to perform like champions in school and in sports. Now is a great time to start a healthy family challenge like drinking more water. 6. Hard work and dedication. Explain to your child that Olympians found their passion and worked hard for their sport. Remind of the importance of focusing, working hard and ultimately trying their best!