We are all exploring options for the best avenue to deliver distance learning through learning platforms. Meanwhile, I’m left worried about where this leaves student-athletes who have been preparing for spring sport seasons. Making sure we deliver curriculum in the absence of in-person education is important, but let’s not forget about extra-curricular programs.
As a parent who is already intimidated by the idea of creating structure and schedule for at home education, I’m also worried about the tendency to forget about the physical needs of my son. The temptations at home to turn to screens is great and if I’m honest, an easy solution for “I’m bored” syndrome. For all the reasons educational-based athletics are important when we are an extension of a school day, those reasons still remain. Sport participation has benefits that will be lost in a mid-season break, but creating some of the same benefits at home are possible.
1. Simply get physical. Be intentional about creating time for physical activity daily. With the absence of structured physical education class, recess play, or sport participation, it will be easy to miss the need to prioritize activity. Set aside designated time for outdoor play and true physical activity each day, multiple times a day. Take a pet on a long walk, take a hike, take a run with your child, or ask your child to teach you a game they play in PE!
2. Stretch sport IQ. For times when your child gets screen time, be intentional about using it to stretch their mind. While he or she may be experiencing academic fatigue, use resources like YouTube and Nearpod to find video sport skill sessions, or “chalk talks” with coaches to enhance their sport knowledge and strategy development. Simply by watching archived games in the sport of their choice, they can learn in place of practice. Ask your child’s coach for recommendations of teams or games to watch and even for a specific position player they could watch to maximize screen time!
3. Brainstorm together. Have your child come up with ways they can work on sport skills while they are off. For example, have them create a 30-minute practice plan and then execute it together. Talk about the importance of incorporating a dynamic warm-up, skill development time, strategy drills, and an end-of-practice debrief. Ask them what elements their practices normally contain and think about creative ways to include similar ones. This can be a fun activity that also stretches executive functioning skills in planning and prioritizing.
4. Don’t forget the basics. Basic health needs—a good sleep routine, staying hydrated, and daily exercise—are easy to dismiss when out of a regular school schedule. These are just as important for the physical and emotional well-being of your child and should be prioritized, even during a break from their typical schedule.
Finally, in-season sport breaks are never ideal, but as always, the safety of student-athletes is the priority. Any play or physical activity during a break is important and can help the transition back to sport practice and play be smoother and less strenuous.
Need more ideas? Email me (kelly.fish@curreyingram.org).
