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DEL.ICIO.USLITTLE LEAGUE FALL OUT
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The other day, I imagined adding some of the following activities to a full days work. Little league practice, football, softball, cheerleading, dance recitals, personal deadlines, community meetings, doctor and dental appointments. I was almost exhausted just thinking about it yet; I believe these are some typical circumstances for many parents.
Will the overworked parents of the world please stand up?
“How, you ask yourselves, can I find the time to exercise when I have so many other responsibilities?” “My energy is low, but, I have to get the kids to ___(fill in the blank).” Do you see yourself in here somewhere? Do you feel guilt at the prospect of taking timeout for yourself? I know that many of you do. So let’s make up some options and try them on for size.
Walk or run during their practices and save your sit time for the actual event. If you’re concerned that your child will feel that you’re not paying attention to them, talk to them. Let them know that you’re still there for them; you’re just getting some exercise while they practice. If you begin being more active while your child is young…It can be a teaching tool on time management later on. By becoming active yourself, you teach the importance of health and you inject the idea that exercise is fun. Your input becomes more than simply “do as I say”. You provide proof of health by your own example. You remove the role of ‘martyr’ from your role as parent, and you become more aware and active in protecting not just your physical health but also your mental health. Making decisions and concessions that work to the good of all, without denying yourself, will always be a benefit to the entire family.
Activate your life and become your Childs favorite role model.
Comments
By Theresa
June 14, 2006 09:33 AM | Link to this
WOW, what a concept - taking time out for myself. I have two daughters who play fastpitch travel ball. This amounts to 3-4 nights of practice each week, and almost all weekends involve tournaments, many over a 100 miles away. I am also a single parent, their father probably does not even know the team names. So I am pretty much on my own. But…I have to admit I love it. I love watching my girls play and even practice. It keeps us close, they are in great shape, and keeps them busy and out of trouble. I fit in “me time” when I can, but right now they are the focus. I figure I will have enough time for myself when they are off at college, I treasure every moment I can have with them.