‘Tis the season……..of the School Athletics Carnivals!
Love them or hate them they happen around this time every year.
So why do schools have them? How should I prep my kid? What’s the parent etiquette? How much pressure do I put on them?
These are some of the questions I’ve been asked over the years. As as Physical Education Teacher in a previous life (not joking!) ….I will attempt to answer some of these questions below:
Why do Schools have them?
School sport is an integral part of a child’s development. So many great lessons can be learnt from them participating as an individual or as a team member. Kids have to deal with success and disappointment and learn to work together as a team. School Athletics Carnivals generally involve a mixture of individual and team events. Some of the events include 100m sprints, relay races, tunnel ball, hurdles, long jump, high jump, tug-a-wars, shot put etc.. By trying a variety of sports, kids get the opportunity to see if they are gifted in any particular area – that they may not have known about or enjoyed before.
AND apart from the physical benefits of sports carnivals there is also the comradery that is formed by being part of a sporting HOUSE – the house colours, the war cries, the house mascots – this builds a feeling of team and community (and a little friendly school rivalry!!) There is nothing like yelling out some of those war cries – I can still remember my school war cries, word for word!! haha
It is good to emphasise the fun and skill development aspects of school athletics carnivals.
How can I send my kid prepared?
Sunsmart
Sports carnivals are generally all day long events which can be extremely tiring for the kids. They are also spent outdoors for the most part so it is important to send your kids sun-smart. Although generally held in the Winter months it can still be really hot – so hats and sunscreen are a must.
Sleep
A good night’s sleep the night before is also an important one. If they’re feeling well rested they cope better with the long day.
Breakie
A nutritious and filling breakfast will help your kids get off to a good start and then regular food & drink stops throughout the day will help them to have the energy they need. It is a good idea to pack in a few more snacks & drinks than normal to cope with the long day of activities.
Drinks
Keeping them hydrated is a big one. Perhaps pack in a couple of extra water bottles for the day. Water is not always readily accessible on the school ovals.
Training
Some training beforehand is not over the top. Although it may not be of great athletic gain, it does teach kids the discipline of being prepared for an event. I’m talking a couple of laps around the oval or a few 100m sprints not 4am training sessions!
Parent Preparation
All of the above tips apply to the spectators as well! Take plenty of snacks & drinks if you are planning on staying for the day. Also a chair, hat and sunglasses are a great idea.
An agenda of the day should be available from the school PE teacher a couple of days beforehand. It is a good idea to get a copy of this if you are wanting to go along just for your child’s event. Inevitably they run a bit behind schedule but at least you will be able to know roughly when they are participating.
How much pressure should I put on my kid?
The only pressure we should put on our kids is positive pressure. I always tell my kids that they must have a go, try their very best and show good sportsmanship.
In terms of my kids winning or losing, I honestly don’t care. I’m just excited to be there seeing them participate and I guess I want them to know that I am there cheering them on to do their best.
Noone knows your kids better than you – so be sure to let your kids know that you are proud of them for doing their very best, regardless of the outcome! Always encourage the other kids that you know as well.
Be a healthy role model for your child by being positive and having fun. Your child will see sports carnivals as positive, fun and relaxed days.
