Skateboarding Curriculum and Instruction

Is Skateboarding Safe?

Skateboarding continues to fight the long associated social stigma of being an activity reserved solely for daredevils and risk-takers. While the inherent risks of skateboarding may appear glaringly obvious on the surface, when taught safely and correctly, skateboarding proves to be as safe, or even safer than many traditional sports such as basketball, football, and bicycling. In actuality, skateboarding provides a perfect opportunity for a young person to take calculated risks in a controlled environment, with very real and immediate consequences if maneuvers are not executed properly. Similar to martial arts, skateboarding fundamentals must be learned first, and then a scaffolding of skills and maneuvers can be perfected and perpetually mastered over a life-time through practice, diligence, and patience, (unlike the instant gratification provided by computers and video games).

Besides the physical rewards gained from skateboarding, there are a number of mental and emotional benefits as well. Skateboarding naturally teaches kids how to set goals and overcome fears through the organic path of progression that is intrinsically imbedded in the act of skating. Skaters are constantly striving to perfect a new trick or master new terrain. Overcoming fears and reaching set goals helps to build many positive characteristics like confidence and self-esteem in kids as they are growing and developing emotionally. Characteristics crucial to future success in school, careers, and life in general. Skaters learn to take initiative and have ownership in the process of attaining goals on their own as they learn to skateboard. Through safe instruction and practice, the act of skateboarding can help develop these skills and habits often found hard to teach in more traditional settings.

As skaters learn the importance of setting and reaching their own goals, they can also learn the essential habits needed in order to become lifelong learners. There is literally no limit to what a person can learn on a skateboard as the amount of tricks and terrain a skater may experience is virtually endless. Regardless of the age or skill level of the skater, there is always something new or different for them to master and perfect. The season never ends and you are never too old to learn something new. These life lessons teach skateboarders to never give up, and that they can always improve and do better, all while they are having fun and staying physically active.

Skateboarding is also a creative experience and a truly individual activity as every skater will inevitably develop their own individual style and unique variations of maneuvers. In addition, the act of skateboarding is inherently non-competitive. Beyond fundamentals, there is no one right or wrong way to skateboard. When practiced safely skating proves to be a mentally and physically stimulating activity for developing children.

As we continue to see the rise of obesity, and the popularity of more “traditional” sports and activities decline, it is important for educators and recreation professionals to embrace the kinds of activities that can keep kids interested and active, as well as participate in over a lifetime. When practiced and promoted properly, skateboarding can be an important and effective tool for teaching the skills of self-discipline and adaptability essential to navigating the increasing variety of challenges and hurdles they will undoubtedly face in life.