The Paralympics: A Time to Celebrate Strength and the Spirit of Competition
The Olympics have passed and I am thinking a lot of you enjoyed watching with your kids, rooting for both your favorite athlete ‘story’ and either the underdog or your home country. More importantly, I hope you got out there and played ‘Olympics’ with your kids followed up with much needed massage for the sore back and legs you have because you just could not let your kid beat you through the playscape obstacle course. Anyone knock their head on those low pipes at the top of the stairs or right before you hit the human flume slides?
As the Paralympics get going another important memory maker and lesson is available to you and your kids. The networks in the United States are not giving them the coverage they deserve it is worth the extra effort to get online and find the coverage of the Paralympics or keep your eyes peeled for when they are being covered by NBC. If you really want to be THE COOL DAD, figure out what events are going to be on TV that night or what you can show your kids online and do some homework. You could totally re-create the games they are competing in and maybe even try to safely re-create the physical condition of the athletes, tie one hand down before running a race, even have a potato sack race with only one hand, blind folds, ear plugs, etc. The ULTIMATE Game to try with your family – GOALBALL. We would love to hear about these games and definitely want pics!!
The stories coming out of the lives of these athletes’ worlds are AMAZING to say the least and worthy of the time it takes to learn about them. If you are the type of Dad who wants to teach about sacrifice, spirit, strength in the face of adversity, resilience, empathy, happiness, goal setting, or love – make the Paralympics a must in your house. It is a lesson your children will never forget. Play some of the games you watch together or make up your own events. Either way, remember the goal is to be together, have fun, and connect with current events. Keep the ice packs on hand or make sure you have some goodwill built up so your sore muscles get the massage they deserve.
If you would like to follow the Paralympics with me go to: http://www2.teamusa.org/US-Paralympics.aspx
You can also follow them on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/usparalympics
GAME ON Superhumans!! GAME ON!!
About Brian Armstrong
I am the father of three children, husband to a very special woman, and work as a Social entrepeneur supporting children with disabilities, the families who love them, and professionals who serve them. Writing for Playground Dad is an opportunity to continue our efforts and connect people to information and services their families need to be their best, yet may not find in through typical channels. As I say to parents, professionals, and children - Let's Play!
