A Back to School Message with Olympic Inspiration

Whether you follow sports regularly or not, the Summer Olympics is always captivating. During the London 2012 Olympics, it’s been hard to miss the story of Gabby Douglas, a 16-year-old who won the gold medal in the All Around Championships for Women’s gymnastics last week, the first African-American to do so.

Gabby’s mom was watching her from the stands during the competition, but so was Gabby’s ‘second mom,’ the woman who took Gabby into her home so she could train with a top Olympic coach in a city far from her hometown. The dual support system behind Gabby’s success is revealing – it took a team of people playing different supportive roles, but their combined efforts resulted in one-of-a-kind success for this young lady.

Who were your mentors growing up?  Who, outside of your nuclear family contributed to your success today in some invaluable way?  If your child’s strengths and interest are beginning to show, supporting those areas any way feasible can lead to a fulfilling life for them in the future.

In August, along with the rest of your back-to-school preparations, consider all those who contribute to the success and health of your children and family. Your child’s teachers and after-school mentors, your neighbors, babysitters, and friends, your religious community (not to mention your pediatrician!) all help your family thrive and your children reach their potential.

Appreciate and participate in your community this fall. Get your kids involved in activities that stimulate their minds and their dreams.

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Founder of Healthy Chats, Dr. Chrystal de Freitas is a pediatrician, author and mother of three children who has a special interest in health education. She completed her pediatric training at the University of Washington, in Seattle, WA, and has been in private practice for 22 years. She practiced with North County Health Services in Encinitas, for 6 years. In 2004, Dr. de Freitas opened her solo private practice of pediatrics, Carmel Valley Pediatrics in San Diego, CA.