For a long time we struggled to know what to do with Caleb. He was doing full front flips off the bottom of his bed, turning cartwheels in the family room, and throwing his body any which way he felt he could wherever he felt the need. We’re surprised he still hasn’t had stitches or a broken bone. After trying karate, soccer, baseball, and swimming, we just couldn’t seem to find the right outlet . . . until he started a gymnastics class. We feel we’ve found a safe place where he can throw his body around and be in a padded environment. Not only that, but he does well at it.
Normally the parents have to sit in the waiting room and take turns peeking in little windows in the door if you want to see how your child is doing. But, today was Observation Day when we could be inside the gym and watch. I was also kid-less aside from Caleb and Hannah who were in their classes. It was so nice to observe and not have to worry about anything else! Caleb told me before class to be sure I filmed him on the pommel horse because that’s his favorite and I HAD to see the ‘straddle down’ – okay, whatever that is. So, I learned what a ‘straddle down’ is and watched Caleb maneuver his body carefully and deliberately from one end of the pommel horse to the other while swinging his legs from one side to the other. Not only did he do it once but a number of times. My arms were aching just watching him!
[mygal=coach_bob]
I also have to say I LOVE Caleb’s teacher, Bob. I found out tonight he’s actually the owner, which made me appreciate him even more. He only teaches 2 classes during the week – one being Caleb’s, which usually only has 4 boys in it; tonight there were just 2 of them. It seemed more like a one on one coaching session which is great with 6/7 year old boys who just want to jump around and DO something.
What a great outlet for him! It sounds like he not only enjoys it, but is good at it!
Hi Becca, I tagged you. Hope you don’t mind. Gymnastics sound great for Caleb!