When my kid drops her ice cream on the floor she is not after a valuable life lesson, she wants another ice cream. I might feel the need to give her a life lesson but it is much more likely that I want an easy life.
This is a quote from a government-funded agency. “The FUNdamentals stage provides an opportunity to teach and develop the basic skills and movement patterns required to participate in any form of sport, play or physical activity.”
Fun was inserted into FUNdamentals in the hope of keeping kids in the game. Yet, society has failed spectacularly in its aim to teach kids fundamental movement skills. Now is the best time to decide if FUNdamentals is a catchy slogan or a distraction from the truth.
We need to make a choice.
If we want an easy life keep FUNdamentals.
If we need to develop fundamental movement skills it’s time to drop the pretence of fun.
If we are not having enough fun. Book a clown.
If you want growth and development. Hire a coach.
If you are a coach who is paid to act like a clown know this. The sad clown paradox describes how performers attempt to get acceptance through fun and enjoyment, whilst feeling sad and empty inside.
And that is no joke.