Broadening horizons vs overscheduling vs when does a child really have to choose??

[exgymnastmomx3]

. For example, the overuse injuries seen in sports such as basketball and soccer are to the ACL (knee), whereas for gym, you'll see injuries to wrists, ankles or back. I will say this: my kid loves competing in different things. I honestly feel like giving her chances to do the different sports camps this summer as well as doing low key leagues (AYSO) will keep her competing longer in gymnastics.

Not quite sure why you are stating this. I haven't looked up stats, but over my lifetime of being in this sport, I have to say that legs (hamstrings, etc.) and knees are very common injuries in gymnastics. Many upper level gymnasts have ACL tears, unfortunately. I'm not saying wrists and backs aren't common as well, but I fail to see how having them in other sports such as basketball, softball, soccer, etc. doesn't tax all of the same muscles as gymnastics. Your legs, ankles, and knees are used in virtually every sport. Water sports excluded, I do not agree that kids in multiple sports don't increase their chances of overuse injuries over time. I've seen it time and time again. Gymnastics AND Dance, Gymnastics and Track, Gymnastics and Cheer. Now if you are talking about one or two days of gymnastics a week and one day of dance or the such at the rec level, well okay, but over time even most level 5's do 3 days per week (I know there are exceptions!) and most other sports expect at least a few other days per week and that's at the beginning level. It's like anything that one is trying to burn the candle at both ends, something tends to suffer and in sports, I personally believe that it's the body and the performance level most of the time.

 

[cathiann]

Responding to the original poster's question about when you know it's time to specialize--for our family it's when the child gets tired of always being on the run. My 13 yr old dd (she's level 9 right now) did swimming and soccer when younger, but decided herself that she didn't want to be that busy--she was in 2nd grade at the time. My oldest (17 now--on the HS gymnastics team) continued with other sports longer--soccer, swim team, softball) before deciding she needed a break. We have HS girls on the gymnastics team that do track in the spring or volleyball in the fall--while still competing successfully with the Optional team. It really depends on how much work you want to put into it.

Why did I personally let my kids do so many different things? Essentially because as a kid, I didn't get to do anything--so my kids get to try everything. And I also didn't want to force them into JUST doing gymnastics because I felt that they'd grow to resent it in the long run. They got to try other things and realize gymnastics is what they really wanted to do.

(btw, my third daughter just started on gymnastics team--as a level 4--she also does swim team. Juggling that this winter will be fun! My son has done soccer, hockey, baseball, tae kwon do, and basketball--now just does a fun basketball league. Yes, I used to drive around a LOT LOL!)

 

[lhmom]

.
Not quite sure why you are stating this. I haven't looked up stats, but over my lifetime of being in this sport, I have to say that legs (hamstrings, etc.) and knees are very common injuries in gymnastics. Many upper level gymnasts have ACL tears, unfortunately. I'm not saying wrists and backs aren't common as well, but I fail to see how having them in other sports such as basketball, softball, soccer, etc. doesn't tax all of the same muscles as gymnastics. Your legs, ankles, and knees are used in virtually every sport. Water sports excluded, I do not agree that kids in multiple sports don't increase their chances of overuse injuries over time. I've seen it time and time again. Gymnastics AND Dance, Gymnastics and Track, Gymnastics and Cheer. Now if you are talking about one or two days of gymnastics a week and one day of dance or the such at the rec level, well okay, but over time even most level 5's do 3 days per week (I know there are exceptions!) and most other sports expect at least a few other days per week and that's at the beginning level. It's like anything that one is trying to burn the candle at both ends, something tends to suffer and in sports, I personally believe that it's the body and the performance level most of the time.

And again, I'm not stating that there aren't many types of injuries for many sports. I was pointing out what has been seen as "overuse" injuries. And where doing multiple sports are concerned, I see what works for my DD, not others. If I were to tell her right now that gymnastics was all she was allowed to do, she would probably quit. She's 7 and doing level 4. Now if she was 7 and doing level 7, then we would be having that conversation because of time constraints. There would be time for nothing else. And again getting back to the OP, you have to look at your family, your time, and your daughter's personality to find the answer.

 

[exgymnastmomx3]

And again, I'm not stating that there aren't many types of injuries for many sports. I was pointing out what has been seen as "overuse" injuries. And where doing multiple sports are concerned, I see what works for my DD, not others. If I were to tell her right now that gymnastics was all she was allowed to do, she would probably quit. She's 7 and doing level 4. Now if she was 7 and doing level 7, then we would be having that conversation because of time constraints. There would be time for nothing else. And again getting back to the OP, you have to look at your family, your time, and your daughter's personality to find the answer.

Sorry, I wasn't intending to imply that one doesn't have the right to decide what is right for their family and would never imply that one should tell their dd that gymnastics is the only thing that their daughter should do as a 7 yr. old level 4. I DO believe that this would be the time that one should explore other possibilities. (although I'm sure many coaches would like a full committment to their sport by even then!) I just have seen time and time again that many people think that more is better and that they can burn the candle at both ends and that for example- "Track will help with gymnastics" or "being in dance will help with gymnastics". I think this can be true if balanced very carefully in the lower levels, but it becomes a point of diminished returns as far as overuse injuries is concerned, and that really was my only point. Whether kids should be in multiple sports on any other level as far as being a well rounded person is an entirely different debate. Sorry, I was in a hurry and didn't respond appropriately and quote appropriately.

 

[mamaoftwo]

I hear you on this inner debate - I feel it too! When "other mom" that aren't familiar with gym hear of DD's schedule - they are horrified! Sometimes I get a very negative vibe from them and it's tough to manage sometimes. Either I'm forcing her to do only gym or I'm overscheduling her. It's hard to find a balance, but I want her to *know* whether gymnastics is "it" or not, I suppose.

DD is still a 7 year old pre-teamer, and does gym 2 hrs per day twice per week. She is also a girl scout 1-2 times/month. During the school year, I occasionally permit one other activity, but it depends on cost, times, and DD's current energy level. This year it was gym only - until the spring, and then I let her add a swim class for 8 weeks.

Now, DS is only 4 and in tot classes, and I am sad to say he sort of has the shorter end of the stick. During the "school year" he only gets 1 gym class per week as far as "structured classes" beyond preschool (gym is his chosen one activity).

Now that school is out - all bets are off. I like to keep busy and get some structure to our weeks. Both kids do T-Ball (separately). DD also did a Pom-pon camp for a week last week (45 min classes only) and this week is doing a T-F cheer camp (1.5 hours per day). BUT- gym is first and she will have missed one days of each of the other "camps". She is also doing the "fun" rec camp at her gym (but will spend some break-out sessions with the "team kids") later in the summer. The following week will be her "team camp" which is just mornings for pre-teamers.

DS gets to do 2 gym classes this summer - they had a great deal on the second class so we figured why not? I figure, if it's too much we can drop one - but DS is one little powerhouse of energy. He chose the second class over the offer of soccer, another T-Ball class (with his sister) or an art class. He will also do the 3 hr/day "tot camp" on the rec side of our gym in July. This week, he's also doing a tennis camp that is two weeks long and 25min/day.

I don't want my DD to choose just yet. So far, gym has remained #1, and has for 3 years now. But I want her to CHOOSE it. Not do it by default. The only thing she seems to enjoy nearly as much is cheer/pom pons. I will support her in whatever she ultimately chooses, as long as I can afford it and have the ability to get her there! Now, after a season of L4? I imagine we'll have a bit of a clearer picture, but that's at least 1.5 years from now.

I say, as long as it isn't affecting your DD's or family's well-being, then let her do her thing. She can choose when she "has to", but I'd hate to see her specialize just because her coaches each want her to (unless there's a darned good reason, of course!).

And as far as overuse goes? I blew out my shoulder at the ripe old age of 15 while at a volleyball summer camp. From repetitive overhand serving. I had surgery at the age of 16 to repair it. It sucked then, but I don't regret it. As noted in the articles, it'll happen in any sport (and even in many occupations later as an adult - shoot, even secretaries get carpal tunnel!). Unfortunately, it's a risk we take (and one not easily overlooked). While at this stage gym doesn't seem to require "specialization" per se, it certainly requires year-round commitment and, definitely, repetitive movements.

 

[JBS]

First of all...I am a coach and a parent.

Here's an easy way to state it. If you're child is doing the sport of gymnastics at the JO level...they are most likely undergoing early professionalization. This is nothing new. Overuse injuries, stress fractures....nothing new. Many gymnastics clubs work very hard to reduce the impact loads....but stress injuries are still there. I agree with all the articles. That's just the way it is.

As far as specialization...most coaches prefer that their gymnasts are not in other sports. Let's face it, team gymnastics programs are not designed with the assumption that your child will also be playing hockey. How can I monitor the impact loads on the gymnasts body if they are doing more than just playing at the beach? I am certainly not cutting down their vault and floor time at the gym due to the hard pounding of the feet against the ice during hockey practice.

So...as a coach...here's my answer..."You should be specializing from the time you enter a JO team." I have no other answer as parents tend to want everything for their children...including a full medal rack from the sport of gymnastics.

As a parent...I will allow my kids to pursue another activity. If the activity is a sport and they like it better...we will be looking into dropping gymnastics...or dropping off of the JO team to a more recreational level.

 

[JBS]

By the way...thank you to all that are contributing to this thread. Excellent conversation!

 

[lilgymmie7]

First of all...I am a coach and a parent.

Here's an easy way to state it. If you're child is doing the sport of gymnastics at the JO level...they are most likely undergoing early professionalization. This is nothing new. Overuse injuries, stress fractures....nothing new. Many gymnastics clubs work very hard to reduce the impact loads....but stress injuries are still there. I agree with all the articles. That's just the way it is.

As far as specialization...most coaches prefer that their gymnasts are not in other sports. Let's face it, team gymnastics programs are not designed with the assumption that your child will also be playing hockey. How can I monitor the impact loads on the gymnasts body if they are doing more than just playing at the beach? I am certainly not cutting down their vault and floor time at the gym due to the hard pounding of the feet against the ice during hockey practice.

So...as a coach...here's my answer..."You should be specializing from the time you enter a JO team." I have no other answer as parents tend to want everything for their children...including a full medal rack from the sport of gymnastics.

As a parent...I will allow my kids to pursue another activity. If the activity is a sport and they like it better...we will be looking into dropping gymnastics...or dropping off of the JO team to a more recreational level.

I like this post for many reasons. First of all, I notice a lot of parents at DD's gym pulling their kids out of gym early to make a softball game, cheer comp., band practice, etc. Where as I would love DD to experience all she can, I am not sure that over scheduling will totally resolve that issue. I think I would create more of a problem than anything else. How can she work at her utmost best if she is involved in so many things. I have often looked at families that do just that with somewhat of an admiration, due to the mere fact that I do NOT have the energy to do the same. I am so glad that a coach actually 'freely' advocates that gymnasts remain in only gymnastics. Thanks JBS! I too am a believer that it isn't specialization-is it really that?- that creates overuse, etc. It is gymnastics and the combo of other sports thrown in the mix that develops in overuse, stress fractures, etc.

I guess what I am trying to say is that I am happy with only allowing DD to do one sport gymnastics. She fills the rest of her time with just being a kid and playing! She has the best of both worlds!!

 

[lhmom]

I like this post for many reasons. First of all, I notice a lot of parents at DD's gym pulling their kids out of gym early to make a softball game, cheer comp., band practice, etc. Where as I would love DD to experience all she can, I am not sure that over scheduling will totally resolve that issue. II am so glad that a coach actually 'freely' advocates that gymnasts remain in only gymnastics. Thanks JBS! I too am a believer that it isn't specialization-is it really that?- that creates overuse, etc. It is gymnastics and the combo of other sports thrown in the mix that develops in overuse, stress fractures, etc.

I guess what I am trying to say is that I am happy with only allowing DD to do one sport gymnastics. She fills the rest of her time with just being a kid and playing! She has the best of both worlds!!

I guess this where I respectfully disagree, but that's what this board is supposed to be about, right? Even though DD played another sport this spring, it was with the understanding that gym came first. Practice had to be on a day she was not at gym. This was worked out with her AYSO coach. If they had a make-up game during the week and it interfered with gym, she went to gym not to the game. Her AYSO coaches knew about this upfront and so did my DD. We follow the rules of the HC (practices are mandatory with very few excused absenses). Since joining the team last year, the only time DD has left gym early is for religious reasons (we're Jewish and several holidays were during the week). The HC was made aware that she was doing soccer this spring and as long as it wasn't one of the super competitive leagues (multiple practices, tournaments, etc), she was OK with it. In our family, we do not "overschedule"-in fact, DD has wanted to add on other things and me (mean mom) has said no to quite a few things. If it were up to her, days would be jam-packed with activities. During the school year, she had chess club after school once a week and I said yes only because it was immediately after school. Just wanted to clarify that I was not advocating doing JO gymnastics "part-time". I understand the need for kids to be there consistently, mainly because I realize how hard this sport is.

 

[Natalia]

Wow!This topic is close to my heart.

My 6 year old is in the gym every day except Sundays...So being the over eager mom that I am,you know the type:"I will give to my child everything I wanted in my childhood but could not have",decides to schedule riding lessons on Sunday mornings.My 6 year old had 0 days without some activity planned and scheduled.

Last Sunday morning,while I was screeching around the house looking for her helmet she says to me:"Mom,I only want gymnastics,I don't want anything else right now,maybe when I'm bigger I won't like gymnastics ,then I'll go horse riding if you want me to."BIG bright light bulb suddenly switched on in my over zealous brain: she's going to go riding to make ME happy!

The path to hell is paved with the best intentions!

Gymnastics is demanding and it's enough all by itself.At least for my 6 year old

 

[lilgymmie7]

I guess this where I respectfully disagree, but that's what this board is supposed to be about, right? Even though DD played another sport this spring, it was with the understanding that gym came first. Practice had to be on a day she was not at gym. This was worked out with her AYSO coach. If they had a make-up game during the week and it interfered with gym, she went to gym not to the game. Her AYSO coaches knew about this upfront and so did my DD. We follow the rules of the HC (practices are mandatory with very few excused absenses). Since joining the team last year, the only time DD has left gym early is for religious reasons (we're Jewish and several holidays were during the week). The HC was made aware that she was doing soccer this spring and as long as it wasn't one of the super competitive leagues (multiple practices, tournaments, etc), she was OK with it. In our family, we do not "overschedule"-in fact, DD has wanted to add on other things and me (mean mom) has said no to quite a few things. If it were up to her, days would be jam-packed with activities. During the school year, she had chess club after school once a week and I said yes only because it was immediately after school. Just wanted to clarify that I was not advocating doing JO gymnastics "part-time". I understand the need for kids to be there consistently, mainly because I realize how hard this sport is.

What are we disagreeing with? I was only trying to state that my personal decision for DD is validated by JBS's post. I in no way was trying to say that someone else's opinion was wrong in any way. I feel better about what I allow for MY DD that is all.

 

[lhmom]

Lilgymmie- So sorry! I meant I disagreed about how overuse injuries occurred, not your feelings about JBS's post. My apologies!!

 

[lilgymmie7]

Lilgymmie- So sorry! I meant I disagreed about how overuse injuries occurred, not your feelings about JBS's post. My apologies!!

No need to apologize. I was also trying to make sure I didn't come off negative in any way.

 

[clueless]

I wish it was all as simple as being guided by DD - but honestly she'd sign herself up for 14 hrs worth of activities per DAY I'm sure of it.

I think it would all be easier for me if it was a matter of "having to" specialise. At DD's age she really doesn't have to.

But maybe she really should. I think that's where I'm leading at the moment. Thanks all but especially JBS for the coach+parent POV.

 

[emorymom]

When my 6yo moved up to 9 hours / week of practice I did tell his swim coach to let me know when gymnastics was interfering with his swimming :rotfl:

 

[MdGymMom01]

I do have to add that my dd's ballet teachers have all said that the gymnastics training have made her such a better dancer--she is so much stronger than the other girls and has more stamina. And her gymnastics coach has also said that the ballet has greatly improved her lines and grace in gymnastics. And although the two compliment each other well, there are only so many hours in the week. And there's the rub .

 

[Bajanswife]

I do have to add that my dd's ballet teachers have all said that the gymnastics training have made her such a better dancer--she is so much stronger than the other girls and has more stamina. And her gymnastics coach has also said that the ballet has greatly improved her lines and grace in gymnastics. And although the two compliment each other well, there are only so many hours in the week. And there's the rub .

I'm going to have this problem with DD and jazz dance. I could see she needed a little help with her timing with the music on floor, and I could see she could use some "flair", so I signed her up for a jazz dance class last term (with her blessing). Her gymnastics ability (great leaps, turns etc.) allowed her to slot right into a more advanced (and fun) class than kids usually start in, and now she's hooked! She got to perform in the end of year show after only 1 term of dance, and she absolutely loved the performing aspect of things, the costumes, the make-up etc. So while I can see her continuing in dance for a while because it's good for her, she enjoys it and the times don't conflict, there will come a time when she might have to choose.

 

[MdGymMom01]

I'm going to have this problem with DD and jazz dance. I could see she needed a little help with her timing with the music on floor, and I could see she could use some "flair", so I signed her up for a jazz dance class last term (with her blessing). Her gymnastics ability (great leaps, turns etc.) allowed her to slot right into a more advanced (and fun) class than kids usually start in, and now she's hooked! She got to perform in the end of year show after only 1 term of dance, and she absolutely loved the performing aspect of things, the costumes, the make-up etc. So while I can see her continuing in dance for a while because it's good for her, she enjoys it and the times don't conflict, there will come a time when she might have to choose.

Exactly Bajanswife. We are to that point now. We have come to the conclusion that this is the last year that she can feasibly do both and next year, she has decided to give up gymnastics and stick with just the dance and further her development with that. She has also gotten to the point where her progression in gymnastics is limited because of her fear issues. It's all good though . At least she has something to pursue that she equally loves and has a deep passion for!!!

 

[ThaBigCheese]

I hear you on this inner debate - I feel it too! When "other mom" that aren't familiar with gym hear of DD's schedule - they are horrified! Sometimes I get a very negative vibe from them and it's tough to manage sometimes. Either I'm forcing her to do only gym or I'm overscheduling her. It's hard to find a balance, but I want her to *know* whether gymnastics is "it" or not, I suppose.

DD is still a 7 year old pre-teamer, and does gym 2 hrs per day twice per week. She is also a girl scout 1-2 times/month. During the school year, I occasionally permit one other activity, but it depends on cost, times, and DD's current energy level. This year it was gym only - until the spring, and then I let her add a swim class for 8 weeks.

Now, DS is only 4 and in tot classes, and I am sad to say he sort of has the shorter end of the stick. During the "school year" he only gets 1 gym class per week as far as "structured classes" beyond preschool (gym is his chosen one activity).

Now that school is out - all bets are off. I like to keep busy and get some structure to our weeks. Both kids do T-Ball (separately). DD also did a Pom-pon camp for a week last week (45 min classes only) and this week is doing a T-F cheer camp (1.5 hours per day). BUT- gym is first and she will have missed one days of each of the other "camps". She is also doing the "fun" rec camp at her gym (but will spend some break-out sessions with the "team kids") later in the summer. The following week will be her "team camp" which is just mornings for pre-teamers.

DS gets to do 2 gym classes this summer - they had a great deal on the second class so we figured why not? I figure, if it's too much we can drop one - but DS is one little powerhouse of energy. He chose the second class over the offer of soccer, another T-Ball class (with his sister) or an art class. He will also do the 3 hr/day "tot camp" on the rec side of our gym in July. This week, he's also doing a tennis camp that is two weeks long and 25min/day.

I don't want my DD to choose just yet. So far, gym has remained #1, and has for 3 years now. But I want her to CHOOSE it. Not do it by default. The only thing she seems to enjoy nearly as much is cheer/pom pons. I will support her in whatever she ultimately chooses, as long as I can afford it and have the ability to get her there! Now, after a season of L4? I imagine we'll have a bit of a clearer picture, but that's at least 1.5 years from now.

I say, as long as it isn't affecting your DD's or family's well-being, then let her do her thing. She can choose when she "has to", but I'd hate to see her specialize just because her coaches each want her to (unless there's a darned good reason, of course!).

And as far as overuse goes? I blew out my shoulder at the ripe old age of 15 while at a volleyball summer camp. From repetitive overhand serving. I had surgery at the age of 16 to repair it. It sucked then, but I don't regret it. As noted in the articles, it'll happen in any sport (and even in many occupations later as an adult - shoot, even secretaries get carpal tunnel!). Unfortunately, it's a risk we take (and one not easily overlooked). While at this stage gym doesn't seem to require "specialization" per se, it certainly requires year-round commitment and, definitely, repetitive movements.

I don't necessarily agree with specialization of a child at such a young age, but from what I'm seeing from our little 8 year old, gymnastics is very different. My older DD who is a soccer player can branch out a little more because in select soccer there are breaks and much less of a time committment. What I've learned about gymnastics, is that gymnastics doesn't play well with others. As much as I would have liked our little peanut to play T-ball and soccer and basketball, gymnastics is her love and all of her time is spent doing it. We put her in soccer and she's played, but unless we are the coaches we can't really control the schedule, and with her being an optional gymnast now, there really is no way for her to branch out unless she wants to cut back on gymnastics. We've seen no indication that she wants to do this, even though teammates are leaving around her and we are moving to a new gym in a new state. I'm amazed that an 8 year old can be so committed, where I'm an old man and I've not been that committed in my entire life. I always ask her if she's enjoying herself at practice because I want to make sure that she is spending this time in the gym for her. In my eyes, she can quit whenever she wants to quit and to go do something else, but for now she is a gymnast through and through and there really is no time for most other activies. Although she is doing a little theater during the day that she is enjoying.

 

[txgymfan]

TheBigCheese, one positive I can see from your daughters decision to focus on gymnastics is that when you move she will have an automatic small community where she will shine. That should make the rest of the transition easier.