omg he did a somersault

[Sara Noel]

Zachary did a somersault and this is a BIG deal over here. He really doesn't like any gravity related activities. (swinging, jumping, hopping, etc) We really need to work on the somersaults, so we put some couch cushions on the floor. (it was the only way to get him to even try) He doesn't mind the crunching into a ball/chin on chest, but hates the rolling over part.

Anyway, we told him if he did just one, he'd get a surprise. I wouldn't normally give a monetary or material reward for this type of effort, but you have to realize a somersault is a HUGE thing for him to even attempt and every attempt for yrs has not had a good outcome. It took about 15 somersaults by Gabe and a whole lot of cheering from all of us, but he finally did one.

I know some of you realize the developmental importance of a somersault. It seems like such a silly thing, but it's important that kids are able to do a proper somersault, hop a certain amount of times on one foot, etc by a certain age.

Anyway, I'm one happy woman and Zachary is so proud and I thought I'd share.

I also caved and gave him the bus toy that was in the gift closet stash. I could not resist.

[kimmee]

I remember how important that was too - with Damon - he was such a perfectionist (still is) and didn't like taking on anything unusual for fear of failure. He is still a little reserved about that stuff but I completely remember that first conquest that you are feeling now - he broke down and did it and was successful - its a monumental lesson!! Ryan - on the other hand is one of those kids that you are constantly afraid is going to break their necks - he has no fear - he flips off the trampoline - he did cliff diving and flips at Saguaro lake when the rest of us were just jumping. Its funny how you never have that kid right in the middle!!!

Good Job Zachary!! (Sara it sounds like you and Gabe have the best relationship )

[forestdale]

YAY ZACK!!!! What a great job. I hope Gabe survived too. I love it when parents feel pride in their kid's achievements.

[homesteadmamma]

Oh my Sara that is so awesome, I'm jumping with you. I do know how important it is for him to succeed in doing somersaults.

Great job Zachary.

[AmyBoz]

Whoo-hoo!!! I definitely realize the importance of this! Way to go, big boy! (Zachary...not Gabe.)

[Sara Noel]

CJ, I NEVER thought he'd even try again anytime soon. He usually really can't stand it. I don't ever pressure him when he clearly is upset to even think about doing it.

He said he'd "practice" again tomorrow, so I am looking forward to him trying again. It's really very scary for him and I don't want him to have a negative experience over it at all.

He has trouble with keeping his head tucked and understanding that it's not his forehead on the ground and he's not going to be hanging upside down or anything. He's deathly afraid of his feet leaving the ground.

I wish you could have seen all of us with our butts in the air. Should have been a fly on the wall over here. Gabe did a couple of handstands, but no spread eagle jumping this time.

Thanks everyone for letting me share.

[Darlene]

I am smiling from ear to ear! Woohoogood for him!
Great reason to pull that bus out.

[slowtypinwoman]

WTG Zachary!!!

[Mom23boys]

WTG Zachary!!! I know how important this it too. Alot of children are afraid because they don't know where they are in space. I am proud of him for trying and succeeding!!!

WOOHOO Zachary!!

[PrairieRose]

That's wonderful! WTG Zachary! Now get Dad to do a double twisting round off.

[Dixie]

WTG, Zachary!

[simplemom]

I'm very happy for Zachary, Sara.

[seadream]

WTG Zach

[paelthom]

WTG Zachery. He's got me beat. I can't do one at all. I'm scared to death to try. I'm glad that he's making such big leaps so early. Hugs to mom and dad for being such patient parents.

[SewCrafty]

WTG Zachary!!