Think they’re too young to understand the importance of lessons learned while trail running? Bring the kids to your next trail event and see what happens to all of you!
Children learn from their parent’s examples every day, they also teach adults innumerable life lessons. “Little ones are like sponges: bring them to "adult" activities and the amount of information about people, places and things they taken in can often stick with them well into their own adulthood, which is why leaving your kids home when you undertake a trail run neither makes sense nor helps children grow into curious, adventurous human beings.” says Aidan.
These days most races have a ‘fun run’ distance which is perfect to bring your child along and show them why you run.
Reason #1: Be Your Child's Mentor
Teach your child about how the body needs to change for different surface. Show them the ins and outs of trail running and you’ll learn a lot about your child.
Reason #2: Show, Don't Tell!
“By including your child in a “big person’s race” you show them that you respect their ability to adapt to unique circumstances at any age, and trust them to observe what’s important as you face the challenge as a team.” Children learn a lot from what they see, let them.
Reason #3: Show Off Your "Human" Side
We try to be perfect in front of our children, to always be Ironman or Superman but we only human and they need to know that. A child needs to know that it’s ok to fall or trip and then dust yourself off, laugh and carry on. Lead by example and use these times to show your true feelings.
Reason #4: Share Some Secrets
“Anticipate conversational topics that may just melt your heart. Perhaps you never heard about the day your daughter fell down in the playground and how a friend came to her aid even before the teacher could reach her.” says Aidan. Let down your guard a little, be open and welcoming and share things. Allow time to feel and respond.
Reason #5: Empower Your Child
Your child can be full of prizes. “Giving your little trail running partner opportunities to exhibit her natural behavioural patterns is likely to impress, please and perhaps disappoint you, but what better way to help your child overcome insecurities than by helping him identifying them?” says Aidan.
Reason #6: Lavish Your Child With Compliments
There is far too much negativity in the world already, use a trail run together to look at what your child does well and compliment them for it. Aidan says to make this your focus as you head for the finish line together.
Reason #7: No Judgments, Please!
You’re on an adventure together and it’s a trail, get a little dirty, protect your body and be an example as you enjoy your time together.
Reason #8: Be Fully Present On The Trail
A run is a mini holiday from being a parent, of course you need to keep an eye on your child and make sure they don’t disappear but this is not the place to ask about tomorrow’s homework or if they tidied their room.
Reason #9: Kiss Competition Goodbye
“Pushing children to win at all cost has become a global epidemic.” Show your child that it’s more important to enjoy the run than to win at any cost.
Reason #10: Everyone Gets A Pleasure Boost!
The hormone Oxytocin is released when parents bond with newborns. Few know though that it is also released when parents and children play together. You can look forward to this rush when you line up on the start line together!
Why not bring your child to the next Spur Trail Series and see how much fun you have together?
Original article written by Aidan H for runsociety.com, to read the full article click here.