The Greatest Bike Riding Teacher Ever!
He ran up and hugged me tightly. “Daddy, you’re the best bike teacher ever!” he exclaimed, his voice filled with pride. Up until that moment, I had managed to contain my emotions solely to a prideful glow, but this kid always seems to find a way to push me outside of my comfort zone. Today’s moment comes courtesy of him learning to ride his bike, without training wheels, in under an hour.
The truth is, teaching a child to ride a bike has little to do with the teacher. I was essentially there for moral support and to follow along behind him, holding his seat as so many Hallmark cards would imply. He is the one who did all the work and my heightened emotions came from watching his pride in himself rather than being proclaimed World’s Greatest Bike Teacher, although it does have a nice ring to it.
This is just one of many obstacles he will hurdle in his lifetime and watching him have pride in the things he accomplishes has been helping me renew my own sense of pride in the things I have done recently. It’s so easy to get lost in routine to the point where you feel like you are just going through the motions of life. What my kids have taught me is that you are never too old to learn something new, and in the case of my children, I’m learning to become a teacher, mentor, disciplinarian and role model, all at the same time. This has opened my eyes to all the other things I want to accomplish in my life and has encouraged me to start going after those dreams.
Funny the effects children can have on our brains.
I think you are VERY correct that it is not about the teacher. The person learning is the one responsible – but it is such an amazing feeling to watch them succeed! Way to go Lucas
So, so proud!
Getting rid of the training wheels is my goal for the summer!
It’s easier than it looks! My main tip would be to go somewhere that is free from distraction.
Nice! My daughter had her first time on two wheels this spring, as well. And as an avid cyclist, it was as big – or maybe bigger – for me than it was when she first walked.
I agree about the difference in the levels of joy. They understand pride now and to see it in his eyes was amazing.