Attentively watching the obstacle course, heart beating like the tune of a drum. Sweat trickling down my forehead.
This moment made me so proud and filled with joy.
My idea of creating a simple, small backyard obstacle course for my kids became a reality.
Watching the smiles, concentration and genuine playfulness on their faces also brought a reminiscence of the inner spark from my childhood.
Experience Purpose
The purpose of the obstacle course was not purely for fun and enjoyment.
As a parent, you always want to see your kids happy and enjoying life.
This may mean guiding them or encouraging them to accept challenges in their lives.
Electronic devices were starting to become first thought options for ways to pass the time. Daily exercise and and personal growth are strong values I would like to encourage my kids to adopt as they continue to grow.
The obstacle course consisted of a standing long jump into a hoop, another jump and balance to a winding line of skipping ropes. Another short jump to a line of 2 X 4 wood planks, leading to a soccer ball which is then aimed and kicked at a target, the tree.
Climbing into a wheel barrow which I pushed around the yard one lap to an end point in the yard. It was then tipped slowly as they slid out standing on their feet. A crawl was then started, moving forward on all four hands and feet crossing the finish line.
They tried their best with functional movements and I would help to correct if needed.
My kids found enjoyment in the challenge while constantly trying to improve maneuvering through the course with quickness and moving correctly. They encouraged each other throughout the obstacle course and found a way to enjoy the process in their own way.
After numerous times going through the obstacle course I was amazed to see them rearrange the course into their own creation and continue having fun with it.
The next day enlightenment filled my mind. They continued to go outside and create, challenge and enjoy their own obstacle course creations.
Experience Benefit
This experience provided the opportunity to incorporate important exercise challenges with valuable team building skills in an enjoyable way for my kids. The benefit was seeing the smiles on their faces and the creation of a memorable moment with my kids.
An obstacle course is like a set of challenges that we can accept, complete in our own creative way. Challenging ourselves to improve each time we do it”
- How can you create more joy in your life by arranging your own “obstacle course” in order to accept your challenges in an enjoyable and creative way?
- What can you do to help someonelse enjoy their “obstacle course” in life?
That is so great, Kristin!! Creative solution to a common problem. I would love to see a picture of this creation.
Thanks Polina. You are right, I will have to take a picture of an obstacle course we create.