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General Climbing Discussion

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Youngsters getting into Climbing 3-Jun-2006 At 4:47:09 PM rubiblu

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When I read your comment "more pleasing is the smile", it brought one to mine. I certainly can't offer any in depth analysis of youth in climbing and this, to a degree, will be a generalization. I am a late starter to climbing myself ( addicted and almost felt like you were describing my own reactions actually) but as a mother of two boys, can make some comment on the commitment to a sport or leisure activity that a younger person can make.

The testing of new sports or activities is a relentless trek of excitement and then waning interest - and yes, often to the frustration, and cost, of parents and those involved in the running of it. But despite this, it is the only, and natural way to go about it. The ones that drop off along the way, more often than not - it just wasn't their thing and they will move onto the next to try and find it. And the ones you describe with the smiles on the faces and determination have found something that gives them that wonderful rush but also fills that headspace enough to block out distractions. It's the right shoe for the right foot!
Many Year 7's still have the unfocused eyes of childhood and are just dipping their toes.

On a personal note, I have taken my 2 boys(eldest year 7) indoor climbing twice now,the second visit only last night. They have also been a couple of times with holiday camp groups. It was an absolute joy to see,in these early days, their desire to choose a route that would challenge them, and to be aware that they were putting their problem solving skills to use. Those smiles were so wide when they achieved what they wanted (I know that feeling!)
For me - I would love them to continue and I will encourage them every step of the way.
Both are problem solvers by nature and very athletic. Does this bode well? Only time will tell. Of course, now I will have to find new ways to finance this!

Anyway, check with me in a few months - it could be lawn bowls by then.