Skateboarding is a popular sport, particularly with the younger crowd. Many of today’s most famous professional skateboarders turned pro when they were just teens, and some started skateboarding when they were only in preschool. Children of all ages can get involved in skateboarders, and today more and more young children are showing interest in the sport.
If your children want to skateboard, you may be trying to weigh their desires, as well as benefits like increased balance and exercise, against safety issues or feelings of skateboarding as a “counterculture” sport. Be aware that minor bumps and bruises are to be expected with this sport, as with nearly every other sport out there, but skateboarding is still a fun and exciting way to exercise.
If you’re not quite ready to let your kids skateboard, consider fingerboards or handboards, miniature versions of skateboards. Other ways to expose your kids to the world of skateboards without worrying about safety issues include skateboarding video games, of which several popular titles exist, as well as watching skateboarding performances or competitions. Your kids may also want to wear skate shoes or other apparel from skateboarding brands. These activities can help them get involved with the skateboarding community without worrying about their safety.
If you decide that your kids are ready for skateboarding, you should take them to purchase a skateboarding as well as all of the necessary padded gear, including a helmet. When first allowing your children to skateboard, be sure to instruct them on how the skateboard should be used. Make them aware of the potential dangers. The truth is, it is very possible to fall when skateboarding, especially when trying to perform tricks.
It is very important to make sure your children are always wearing protective gear when skateboarding. Your children will probably not want to wear their pads, especially if their friends are not wearing them. Elbow and knee pads can prevent scrapes and broken bones, and of course, a helmet is a necessity. Make sure that they know wearing this padding is necessary if they want to be able to skateboard. Although children should be given a choice in many matters concerning them, protective gear is not an area where you should compromise.
You should supervise your children after they get their skateboard to make sure that they are using it safely and aren’t attempting tricks for which they don’t yet have the skills. It also makes sense to help your children understand their skill level; young children may become frustrated when they can’t perform the same tricks, or may hurt themselves trying. Help them achieve a balance between safety and confidence that allows them to try the tricks they feel able to complete. Skateboarding DVDs can also help them learn new tricks, but be sure to get one with tricks that are matched to their skill level.
Skateboarding is a fun activity enjoyed by children and adults worldwide. It is a great physical activity and a way to get some exercise outdoors. You can let your children skateboard in your yard or take them to skate parks where they can practice their skills with friends. There are also skateboarding competitions for skateboarders of all ages. Get involved in your kids’ activities; take an interest in their new hobby and watch them perform the tricks they learn.
