Training for the spring season of Soccer started 2 weeks ago. Denisse has improved a lot. I am not only saying that because she is my kid, a lot of parents have asked me if she has played before, because she is so focused.
Anyway, she is on a different team this time, which I personally don't mind, that also helps her out being comfortable with other people and maybe she will find that one kiddo she will open up to. All the kids on last seasons team, were also very focused and you could tell they enjoyed being there.
We all wish, our kids would enjoy themselves in activities we pick for them, unfortunately sometimes that's not the case. Like when Denisse, wasn't having it in martial arts. I was disappointed, and I am not going to lie about it. The more I insisted on it the more she would withdraw. She gave me so many signs. She had told me in her own voice NO, but of course kids tend to say that about something new, or just to say it. Once it started though it wasn't her voice saying no, it was her attitude. She would cry, she wouldn't participate, she wouldn't pay attention. So, finally we stopped going.
I am bring this up because there is one little girl on the team that appears to be having the same issue. The age group is under 6, so maybe the age thing has a lot to do with it, but she looks to be either 5 or 6. She is not focused at all, doesn't listen, doesn't look interested in playing. I understand, that being a recreational team is more about it being fun rather than competitive. This little girl though doesn't look like she is having fun.
When she gets to practice, she looks tired and unhappy. Once practice starts, she is so distracted by other things. I can tell that even the coaches are getting a little impatient with her. Yes, there are other kids that are acting the same, but they are much younger. Also, her mom doesn't seem to be interested in her playing or learning the game. She sees her unfocused and just standing there and doesn't say anything. Other parents, including myself sit there, cheer on and direct our kids, or tell them to pay attention.
To have your child in an activity just because its the in thing to do or because the rest of your social group does it even though your child clearly isn't interested is a total waste of their time and yours. I wonder if her mom even bothered asking her, or if she gave her any other options.
As parents our job is to guide our children in the right direction. Given them the tools so they can follow or make their own path in life, not make it for them. We have to understand that we may not have a ballerina but a gymnast, a basketball player or whatever their little heart is into. We have to listen to our child. What is the use of having your child in an activity she isn't enjoying?
Anyway, that's my two cents. Hopefully she is able to enjoy, if not the game but the friendships she makes along the way.
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