We have all heard the saying, “Give a man a fish, feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, feed him for a lifetime.” Kids are the same way. Too often in today’s world we wish our kids would be more active, be outdoors more, learn more skills, etc. We have to teach them to be these things. It is the only way that we will ever ensure they are healthy and happy in the future.
Break the Cycle
How often have you heard yourself or other parents you may know say that their child “lives” on computers, smart devices, tablets, etc.? The devices we have available today provide entertainment to children that enables them to sit day in/day out. They do not feel boredom because they simply change the channel or play a different game.
This isn’t all bad. Its a great thing for rainy days. However, as kids (or the adults) spend more and more time on these devices, we forget that there are other things out there.
We forget that we have family we should talk to. We forget that our heart health depends on active living. We forget that our body needs exercise to maintain a healthy weight. We forget that there is LIFE that doesn’t require a DEVICE.
Isn’t it time we break this unhealthy cycle that we are on?
Why Teach Kids to Fish?
You may not think of fishing as something that is “active”, but there are still many reasons to encourage your child to learn to fish. For instance, a child that has learned to fish will appreciate nature just a little more. This could lead to them trying to take care of Mother Earth as they grow into adulthood. You can encourage this by reminding them to avoid littering and leaving personal items behind, which will further strengthen your relationship with them. You will be spending actual time together, free of school, work, devices, and stress.
Fishing will also improve your child’s coordination and balance. If you have ever caught a big fish for yourself, you know how much of a “battle” it can be. Upon catching their fish, they will gain confidence that can only be learned through perseverance and patience, which are both required for fishing.
They will learn to focus for longer periods of time on one task-watching that bobber move or waiting for the tug on their line. Your child may become more independent and more able to plan ahead for other situations. Fishing requires you to decide which bait you want to use, when its a bite versus a current, where to fish for the most success, etc. All these things will be remembered as they deal with other decisions, choices, and challenges in their life.
Plan Your Fishing Trip Today!
There is only one way to encourage a healthier lifestyle through fishing. You have to load up the fishing gear and head to your nearest river, creek, pond, lake, or ocean. We can tell you now that at first, your child may balk at the idea of leaving devices behind, but we hope you remain strong and show them that there is a whole world waiting out there for them. It can come at the end of their fishing line!