Ninja Time!!!!!!

"Just like reading and writing, children have to learn to move! Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning. But for children, play is serious learning. Play is really the work of childhood."

First it was Ultimate Beastmaster. Then the kids moved on to America Ninja Warrior. 

For his birthday in January, Sidge's "gift" was that we work on expanding a Ninja course in our front yard. Grampa and JB have been helping. Grampa did the "floating steps" a few months ago. But this week, JB completed a fantastic upper body section.

Here are some pictures (and a video) of the completed product:

This brings my heart such incredible joy for numerous reasons. The first is that just being outside, being active, is so very important to me. Other than Abigail in dance, my other kiddos haven't expressed a clear love for a certain activity -- but this let's them get outside and stay active right at home. (Sidge currently seems most impressed with karate and Isaac with tennis.)

The other reason I am super happy is Isaac. Isaac's "heart" is in sedentary activities like piano and reading and legos and Hotwheels. These are great activities, but they don't keep his body healthy. While my other three kids will go on jaunts into the woods and around the farm, Isaac isn't as likely to do that. But he LOVES LOVES LOVES the Ninja course!!!!

I am also excited that this will be something other kids can come here and visit and play with this as well. It's community for children, and I love it.

In general, we aren't a fan of television in our home. But if you want something to inspire your children, try these two fantastic shows. (Both have limited amounts available on Netflix.)

  

Wendi