A few nights ago I was on my way to an event dinner with my moms’ group and I was listening to a radio program. I don’t remember who the host was who was filling in for the regular host, but she was talking about how much she cannot stand cheerleading. I couldn’t take my ears off the program.
I enjoy watching cheerleading. I love Bring It On for the cheering. Every fall since the show started we watch Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders: Making the Team. It is a lot of fun to watch what it takes to become one of the most famous cheerleaders.
When I was in high school I was assistant teacher in my ballet school’s children’s ballet/tap classes. The classes began at age three. Many of the schools in our area that offer classes in cheer start at age three. Jessie’s almost three and I feel like I should put her in something. Cheering is an option.
This radio host feels cheerleading is overly sexualized. She feels the moves are inappropriate for young girls. She also has a problem with the costumes. She does not seem to have a similar problem with girls in dance programs, which seems hypocritical. Ballroom dance costumes are skimpy, the moves suggestive, and danced with a partner.
Jessie was playing with some friends yesterday. Gracyn, five, was showing Wesley, five, her cheers and Jessie was trying to keep up. It was fun to watch and Jessie enjoyed it.
After I came home from my event Chris and I talked about how we feel about little girls and cheerleading. Right now we think it’s cute and fun. We may change our minds, if Jessie chooses to cheer and we get into it. We’ll see. What’s your stance on dance or cheer for toddlers?