From Slate Magazine · Arionne Nettles · · 1m 50s
Backyard Fencing League Grows Too Big
Parents turn backyard fencing into a chaotic kids' league with 11 children.
In brief
Parents turn backyard fencing into a chaotic kids' league with 11 children. A backyard fencing group for kids has grown to 11 children, causing conflicts between serious fencers and those just playing. Originally reported by Slate Magazine.
Backyard Fencing Starts
A parent started a backyard fencing group for their child using swords under supervision.
Swords Work Well
Behavioral benchmarks with swords reduced tantrums and improved communication among family members.
Sword Practice Begins
The parent commissioned a scaled-down sword and padded jacket for their child to practice fencing.
Friends Join Group
Neighborhood children became curious and joined the fencing group, leading to more parents getting involved.
Group Grows to 11
The fencing group now includes 11 children with varying levels of interest in the activity.
Conflicts Form
Some children treat fencing as serious training, others enjoy it for fun, and some just want to play with friends.
Rifts Between Groups
Children from different groups have argued during weekend sword lessons, causing tensions.
Parents Involved
The parents are the most involved in the group, though other parents help with snacks and drinks.
Injury Risk
The group faces injury risks without proper supervision, equipment, and space from a certified instructor.
Moving to Real Place
The parents should move the group to a real place with a certified instructor to reduce injury risks.
Group Rate Option
The parents can work out a group rate with the instructor and other parents to share costs.
Injury Prevention
The group should have waivers for injuries, similar to how kids sign waivers for basketball leagues.
Next Steps
The parents should find a certified instructor and move the group to a safer location to prevent injuries.
The one thing
A backyard fencing group for kids has grown to 11 children, causing conflicts between serious fencers and those just playing.
