Synchronized Swimming

Since Friday, I have spent a lot of time enjoying and celebrating the Olympics. There really is an event for everyone...even if your thing is hand ball.

Thinking about trying some new Olympic-inspired moves? Allow me to recommend learning some basic synchronized swimming techniques. This great article provides five simple moves to start with.

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What could be better than dancing in the water?

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The Perfect Flip Turn

Inspired by a graphic how-to illustration in American Girl Magazine  (which cannot be found anywhere on the web), I took to the pool with a mission: to learn how to flip turn.

What better time to work on your swimming techniques than during the Olympics? This instructional video breaks down the turn in a way that would be easy for both kids and adults.

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Let the Games Begin!

Do you remember watching the Olympics as a kid? At 11 years old, the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta meant everything. Dominique Moceanu, only a few years older than me, inspired me to believe that young people were talented, capable, and dedicated. The US women's basketball team completely changed the game. Sheryl Swoopes was god!

Whether it's just watching, or getting out there and trying some of the sports themselves, the Olympics can have a big impact on kids.  Get your future medal winner inspired with an Olympic themed party. Need last minute invites? Paperless Post has got you covered! Get the party started right by asking your guests to create their own opening ceremony uniform, from either a country of their choice or a country of their own making! Let them show off their sporty digs while marching around the yard or neighborhood to outrageous fanfare played over your iPhone. 

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For decoration, hang up a banner of international flags, or have your guests create their own flags with white paper, crayons, a wooden dowel, and some glue. A chart to keep track of each country's medals is a great decoration, activity, and math exercise.

Don't forget snacks! I'll be making Olympic torches out of ice cream cones and popcorn. Air pop the corn kernels for a healthier option.

A photo booth will keep the party going, and helps each person remember the fun. Buy or make your own Olympic or sport-themed props!

Before each guest leaves, award them all with a medal. Turn it into a game by saying a few nice words about one child, give them a medal, and then have them say some nice words about another kid. Continue this activity, emphasizing that each person has to pick someone new, until each child has a medal.

Cheerio!
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