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AIBU?

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Can kids do gymnastics on the field at playtime?

105 replies

Trallers · 23/04/2025 18:23

At my school the kids have been told by some members of staff that they are allowed to do gymnastics moves but only ones they "know how to do" and not ones they are learning. It's outrageously unsafe isn't it? The head doesn't 'allow' it but some staff members seem to, despite me raising it repeatedly. I tell the kids not to but they don't understand why something they are good at is dangerous, especially when the teacher on duty yesterday said it was fine. Plus they aren't always in ears reach so I have to watch them do 6 back flips in a row, or an aerial cartwheel, as I race across the grass. It's actually making me want to quit as we roll into summer and it's every bloody day. Throw in all the other poor behaviour and I'm tearing my hair out! I have a feeling this isn't happening at other schools as none I've spoken to allow it - would be interested to hear wider responses though.

OP posts:
Sofiewoo · 23/04/2025 18:34

I honestly don’t understand what’s wrong with a kid doing a cartwheel on some grass?
Do you just want all fun to be banned? Why is that more risky than running, playing football or mucking about?

Ineffable23 · 23/04/2025 18:32

Gosh I spent the whole of my summers at primary school practicing my handsprings. Isn't this what childhood is for?

Trallers · 23/04/2025 18:32

AlannaOfTrebond · 23/04/2025 18:28

That is literally what kids do when given grass to play on. If they were attempting these moves on tarmac you might have a point - and yes I am aware that dry ground gets hard in the summer, but even so.

Fair point, and I get that they want to and so will do. Bit giving it permission amongst flying footballs and games of tag feels insane. Different if in defiance of the rules but for staff to say something so dangerous is fine while watching happily feels crazy to me...

OP posts:
Moonnstars · 23/04/2025 18:31

Speak to your headteacher for clarification. Get them to then send out a memo saying what is/isn't allowed to all staff, and to either include the rules into an assembly or pass onto class teachers to remind the children (we always have reminders not to run or roll down the bank).

AlannaOfTrebond · 23/04/2025 18:28

That is literally what kids do when given grass to play on. If they were attempting these moves on tarmac you might have a point - and yes I am aware that dry ground gets hard in the summer, but even so.