Getting P involved in sports and exercise is important to me. I’ve been chubby my whole life (with the exception of my military days when men with guns helped me “modify my behavior”) and growing up, I know physical activity was not prioritize nearly enough.
So I make it a point to keep her active and encourage her to not be a couch potato. She is currently taking tumbling classes (I know, silly for a two year old, right? But they are so much fun.). Each week she goes to a Stretch and Grow class at preschool which is nice during these winter months when they don’t get much outside playground time. I make a mental note when she expresses an interest in things as she sees them – karate class on Sesame Street or ballet dancers at the Fine Arts Sampler.
That’s why I was very interested to hear about Tennis Night in America. My bloggy BFF and real-life-soul-sista Shannan first posted about it at Mommy Bits Reviews. I figured at two, P might be a little too young for tennis, but definitely something to plug into the ol’blackberry for next year!
I’ll admit, tennis intimidates me. Growing up, it seemed to be a sport for the fancy people. My memories of it were watching Wimbledon on television around the Fourth of July each year. Those beautiful grass courts (at least at the beginning of the tournament) seemed to define wealth and privilege – I mean the QUEEN went the Wimbledon for heaven’s sake! How silly to be intimidated by one instance of the sport, clear on another continent, but I was.
But no more – tennis is for everyone and it happens to be a super sport to introduce your child to. And if you’re like me, you haven’t a clue where to start – fear not! Next week, March 2nd is NATIONAL YOUTH REGISTRATION NIGHT. The first ever “Opening Day” for youth tennis in the U.S.
Almost 600 local tennis programs around the country will host signup events that night. You can find a spot near you by visiting www.tennisnight.com.
Tennis is an easy fit for busy and frugal families (it’s less expensive than the national averages for football, baseball, softball and lacrosse by nearly 50%!). I’m sure if you think about it, there are courts spattered all over your community. Then, all your kids really need is a racquet, a ball, and a little encouragement!
So check it out and keep me posted. Maybe when your little Steffi Graf is playing at Wimbledon you could invite your buddy Amy in OHio to come along! Think we could sit next to the Queen?
5 comments
Comments feed for this article
February 26, 2009 at 6:29 pm
Mary @ Giving Up on Perfect
One time I thought I would learn to play tennis. I don’t know why. I, too, think of tennis as a fancy-person sport. I sold my Walmart raquet a couple years ago in a garage sale – like new.
And I, too, have been chubby my whole life (no military exception for me, unfortunately) and want better for my daughter. So how does the tumbling class work? 2 seems so young for something like that! But I’m seriously asking, because my daughter is 16 months and I’m really interested!
I’ve also been looking for a Jazzercise class near me, by the way, because you’ve mentioned liking it on here!
February 26, 2009 at 9:05 pm
Heather @ Domestic Extraordinaire
I am going to check out the website. I remember Shannan talking the Tennis people up when I stayed at her house. And SM was so excited to show me that he could hit a ball. Thanks for sharing!
February 27, 2009 at 11:55 am
Olivia
I love tennis! I’ll play with you anytime you want! its not fancy at all. At least not how I play.
My daughter (20 months) also goes to tumbling – at her age its just kind of organized playing on gymnastics equipment, but she really likes it. She also loves swim lessons (more of the same – organized playing, but they do try to teach some basics like blowing bubbles and doing basic strokes).
I think Amy’s 100% right that its up to parents to model healthy behavior for their kids – show them from the start that exercise and healthy living is fun, and prioritize to make it a part of your family life.
March 1, 2009 at 8:04 pm
shannanb aka Mommy Bits
I am going to look into signing SM up. He and B have been having so much fun playing with tennis rackets in the house (with super soft foam balls….) that I think it’s worth exploring.
March 4, 2009 at 2:51 pm
Cortney
I LOVE to play tennis. I took classes about 6 years ago and it very quickly became addicting! I have been pregnant for most of the last 3 years so I can’t wait for the warmer weather to hit so I can get back out there. Classes are super fun and it gives you a chance to meet new people of all ability levels. Let me tell you, it really puts you in your place when a 69 year old can beat you every time. It definitely gives you something to laugh about! I can’t wait to get my 2 yo out there this summer – believe me, he is a natural athlete so it will be fun to see what he does.