It’s not a secret to anyone who knows us: sports play a big part in my little family.
We didn’t actually set out to be that way. My husband, who played local hockey growing up and also for a team in Canada, didn’t discuss our future kids following in his footsteps. I wasn’t heavily involved in sports as a child, besides watching Sunday football games, and didn’t really think about my kids playing any sports after they were born.
It just kind of happened.
Our first son fell in love with baseball after going to a Cleveland Guardians game. Both of our sons decided that hockey was worth their efforts after seeing the Cleveland Monsters for the first time.
Believe me, we did try other things; but we just followed our kids’ lead when it came to sports — and here we are, several years (and many dollars) later.
I’m sure you’ve seen the headlines in recent months: “The Crazy Parent Fan” — you know, the one who jumps on the football field or ice to tackle the referee.
Yes, I admit, a few parents can get overexcited and ruin it for their kids and themselves. (I’m sure it’s not just sports activities either, right? Have you seen “Dance Moms”?)
However, the majority of parents are there supporting not just their own kids, but everyone’s kids and the overall team.
Honestly, I wouldn’t take back any of these years with my kids. The car rides, snacks, the trips to different places and seeing pure joy on their faces when they make a big play. Even when the team loses (which happens more than we realize), it’s a lesson in coping skills and overcoming challenges.
What I am not a fan of sometimes is the emotions I have gone through with my boys — and remembering that it isn’t about my feelings.
That’s why in this issue, we wanted to highlight a typical family that is embracing their sports season and learning a lot along the way.
For middle school parents, we have something for you, too: our Middle School Guide. It provides you grade-by-grade advice, tips for navigating your kids’ group chats, and more. I know it’s tough to manage all the trending technology and kids’ emotions as they get into the tween years. Hopefully our stories help.
Finally, as I write this column, the weather has turned the corner to fall. I have my windows open, the air is crisp and I can wear some of my fall favorites.
There’s so much going on, whether you want to take a hike to see the changing colors, are interested in spooky or not-so-spooky thrills, or just hope to enjoy the pumpkin farm fun. We want to make sure you are “in the know” regarding fall happenings. Look to NortheastOhioParent.com all month long, too, as we will be updating the list with even more events.
In our family, fall and winter are mostly our primetime sports seasons. Sometimes, it feels hard to catch our breath and just enjoy the game. I think my goal for this year is to relax, because it will be over sooner than I think — and I know I will miss it.
