In a response to overwhelming requests for some video blogs, here is our first effort. We centered our focus on how we taught our kids to ride bikes. Watching them progress over the years has not only been an exciting adventure but it also taught us about their ability to handle more leadership responsibility. We hope you enjoy the video. Please feel free to leave some comments and let us know how we are doing at the bottom of the page. –
The Video
Disclaimer
This was not a sponsored post. None of the products or brands depicted in this were given to us for advertising purposes. We do not make any money from anything in the video as of the time of its publication. This video is not meant to recommend any specific brand or product. It is for educational and entertainment purposes only. Any references to actual products is for clarification of the items that we personally bought and actively use.
On the other side of things – If you are a manufacturer or retailer and would like to sponsor some of our adventures… If you have money, we have pockets!
Real People Doing Real Things
This was actual footage of the first days they kids learned how to ride on two wheels by themselves. None of them ever used training wheels. However, there is a slight caveat to that. Lily’s bike originally had training wheels and she was initially upset and didn’t want me to take them off. She rode about 10 feet before she decided they were in the way and then obviously asked me to get rid of them. Naturally I agreed and already had the wrench in hand. I removed the training wheels before she could even get off the bike. The results were amazing to watch as a parent. Jen and I love watching our kids succeed and also love it even more when its their idea to push forward.
The Evidence
There are several studies in the medical literature that reinforce the idea that a strong sense of self worth, confidence, and a positive self image will ultimately reinforce their ability to overcome obstacles as they progress into adulthood. One of the more recent publications I have seen discusses the effects of “non-cognitive” skills and self image. This study specifically states:
“Findings suggest that positive self-concept is associated with youth staying in school rather than working, and young women staying in school rather than being NEET, and its effect size is comparable to those of cognitive skills. “
I should clarify that the author defines NEET as: “not currently in education, employment, or training (NEET)”.
The more we enable and empower the youth, the better equipped they will be to fix everything in the world that our generation has broken.
Balancing the Equation
I am fortunate to have such a supportive wife in these endeavors. I know I joke about her being a pushover, but she easily balances the equation and keeps things from being overly academic. Lets face it, we all know how easy it is to fall asleep in a lecture. This reality is not lost on me. My brain, however, needs to analyze and find ways to improve things. I try to make it efficient and educational while Jen ensures we all have fun.
