My son (age 7) has been involved in organized youth sports for several years now, but we are finding that he is incredibly small, weak and uncoordinated for his age. Additionally, he is getting bullied at school by KINDERGARTEN and FIRST GRADERS (he is in 2nd grade), which was the last straw for my husband, who has been trying to get my son to be more assertive...Can anyone recommend a good strength training facility or other activity for children of such a young age that will help build strength, confidence and self-esteem? We live in Allen, but are willing to travel to surrounding areas. Please advise.
I would recommend getting him into a good gymnastics program. That will help build up his strength and agility definitely. There are so many in the area to choose from. I've been to Metroplex in Allen and it's nice (only been there for open gym, don't know how good the classes are). You might ask other moms if they've a recommendation for gymnastics in Allen. Just an option.
I agree with the previous posters who recommeded Taekwondo. My nephew was horribly picked on, and his self esteem suffered. After a couple of months in taekwondo, he was a different kid. He was able to regain confidence and his sense of humor which had been missing for a couple of years due to the bullying. Good Luck!
N B,
You guys are not alone. There is a great option for you if you are willing to spend some money...although most parents (especially dads) will do what it takes in that situation. Anyway, my husband is close friends with a guy who has twin brothers that happen to play soccer for SMU. They have their own personal soccer training, as well as agility, strength, etc in coordination with a special athletic training facility called Paradigm Sports Performance. Most local high school and college athletes use this facility and use these two guys for agility and soccer development. If you are interested, contact Esteban Mariel or Manuel Mariel at ###-###-####. Or email at ____@____.com You can also see website www.paradigmsp.com
If soccer is what you guys want your son to focus on, these guys are the best in Dallas. But again, they also work with this sports performance facility to focus on other sports and general training, agility, etc. If you call them, tell them M. and Aric sent you to them...they will likely give you a small break. Good luck!
I recommend getting him into a karate program. I was surprised when looking into the children's programs how much of it was based on self-esteem, respect for others and of course the physical part of it. My son's neurologist said that it is wonderful for children with poor upper body strength, etc. It sounds like it would be a good fit for what you are looking for.
My nephew did great in Taekwondo and at age 8 or 9 has earned his black belt...his confidence is up and his self discipline is too.
