Navigating a young athlete’s career is a task that can be daunting for parents, regardless of their own experience in competitive sports.
That process is also a task that author Julie Fabsik-Swarts has comprehensively undertaken in Parenting a Gymnast, her recently published book. With over 40 years of experience as a gymnast, coach, judge, official and executive, Fabsik- Swarts explores the various aspects of competitive gymnastics, offering tips, insights and analyses on topics ranging from choosing the right club to injury maintenance to misperceptions about judging to collegiate recruitment. The book provides a rational yet encouraging manual to help parents manage and optimize their children’s gymnastics careers.
Parenting a Gymnast’s subtitle, “A guide for parents to support the dreams and realities of their young athletes,” encapsulates what the author explores in her 302-page book.
In this International Gymnast Online interview, Fabsik-Swarts details her incentives for writing Parenting a Gymnast, how and why she chose the book’s topics, and what she hopes readers will learn and gain from its contents.
IGO: Compared to other books about gymnastics, your book delves into several topics that are essential to parents as they navigate their children’s careers. How did you decide which topics to include, based on what you felt were the most important considerations for parents, and what was previously not addressed in other publications?
JFS: In Parenting a Gymnast, I wanted to create a resource that truly speaks to the challenges and nuances of supporting a child through their gymnastics journey, a perspective that I felt was often overlooked in other books. To determine the topics, I started by reflecting on my own experiences, and conversations with other parents, coaches and gymnasts themselves. The goal was to address not only the athletic aspects but also the emotional, mental and practical sides of parenting an athlete in such a demanding sport.
One key consideration was the unique parent-child dynamic in gymnastics, which often involves long-term commitment, intense training and sometimes early specialization. I included chapters on balancing encouragement with realistic expectations, handling competition stress and fostering a healthy body image – topics that I found were not always fully explored in other resources. Additionally, I wanted to give parents the tools to navigate the complexities of the gymnastics world, like managing communication with coaches, understanding the financial and time commitments, and being aware of injury prevention and recovery.
I chose these topics because first, they were a majority of issues my parents and the parents of athletes I have coached made. Additionally, I believe they are essential for any parent who wants to help their child not just succeed but thrive both in and out of the gym. Many other publications focus primarily on the physical techniques or the athlete’s perspective, but I wanted to offer a broader, more holistic approach tailored to the parent’s role in a young gymnast’s life.
IGO: Throughout your career as a gymnast and judge, and prior to writing the book, what are some of the most surprising questions you’ve been asked, which motivated their inclusion in your book?
JFS: In the book, I have aimed to address many of these common concerns that a parent might ask. Some of the more surprising questions I have gotten along my road as a coach or official include the idea of “giving a child their shot at Olympic stardom” when they’re only just beginning as a competitive athlete. Some parents are willing to move jobs, gyms, homes, et cetera for a child that has not warranted this level of dedication. They often have unrealistic expectations about the timeline and progression of their child’s gymnastics career. I emphasize the importance of understanding each child’s individual path, recognizing that Olympic-level success is rare and that the focus should be on fostering a love for the sport and personal growth rather than setting premature expectations.
Second, the issue of parents abdicating their protective role is also a critical one. Gymnastics can be intense, and it’s essential for parents to stay actively involved in their child’s emotional and physical well-being, especially in a high-pressure environment. I touch on how to maintain open communication with both the gymnast and the coach, and encourage parents to balance their support with safeguarding their child’s health and mental well-being.
And third, I often get questions or curiosities about judges. Parents do not understand the dedication and the cost of maintaining a high-level rating. In the book, I try to shed light on the behind-the-scenes efforts that go into officiating, including the training, time commitment and financial investment required to keep a high-level rating. This helps parents better appreciate the complexity and dedication involved in the sport – not just for the athletes but for everyone who supports their journey.
IGO: What are some of the other topics in your book that you feel have not been discussed in such depth, but which needed to be?
JFS: In Parenting a Gymnast, I wanted to create a well-rounded guide that serves as a comprehensive resource for parents. The goal was to offer them a general understanding of the gymnastics system in the USA and help them navigate the decisions they’ll face. While each topic – whether it’s managing expectations, staying involved in their child’s well-being, or understanding the behind-the-scenes aspects like judging, coaching, the various competitive programs, NCAA and the elite program – could certainly be explored more deeply, this book is meant to provide a solid foundation.
By giving parents a broad overview, I hope to empower them with the knowledge they need to support their child’s journey effectively. This guide helps parents make informed decisions without overwhelming them with too much detail at once, while encouraging further exploration as their child’s gymnastics career progresses.
IGO: How did you collect the information in your book. How much of it was from your own experience, discussions with parents and input from officials?
JFS: Much of the information in Parenting a Gymnast comes directly from my 40+ years of experience as an athlete, coach, collegiate coach and judge. However, I wanted to ensure the book was as accurate and comprehensive as possible, so I reached out to experts in areas like men’s gymnastics, USA Gymnastics, and collegiate recruiting. These experts helped provide factual insights in areas where I felt their specialized knowledge would enhance the content.
Additionally, I consulted many parents throughout the writing process to understand their concerns and questions. This input was invaluable in shaping the book’s direction, and what I discovered was a clear need for this kind of resource. Parents expressed a desire for a guide that would help them navigate the often complex and unfamiliar world of gymnastics, which reaffirmed my belief that this book could fill an important gap.
IGO: There must be skepticism and fear among some parents who wish to enroll their kids in gymnastics, based on the abuse scandals, the perception/reality that the sports is too physically punishing on children, and that kids miss key socialization by devoting so much time to training. How do you feel you’ve addressed these concerns in a way that is objective but also encouraging?
JFS: You’re absolutely right – skepticism and fear among parents regarding gymnastics are understandable, given the high-profile abuse scandals, concerns about the physical demands and worries that children might miss out on important socialization by devoting so much time to training. In Parenting a Gymnast, I approached these issues head-on, balancing objectivity with encouragement.
When addressing the abuse scandals, I felt it was crucial to acknowledge the reality of what has occurred in the sport, but also to highlight the positive changes and increased safeguards that have been implemented. I discuss the importance of choosing the right gym environment and staying involved in your child’s gymnastics journey. I encourage parents to be proactive about communication and aware of the signs of unhealthy dynamics, while also reassuring them that, with the right guidance, gymnastics can still be a safe and rewarding experience for their child.
Regarding the perception that gymnastics is too physically punishing, I wanted to present the facts about the physical demands of the sport without sugarcoating the challenges. I cover how parents can ensure their child is progressing at a healthy pace, working with coaches who prioritize proper technique and being vigilant about injury prevention. At the same time, I emphasize the incredible benefits of gymnastics, from strength and coordination to discipline and resilience, helping parents see the positive outcomes that outweigh the physical challenges when managed correctly.
Finally, the concern about missed socialization is one I took seriously. I address how children in gymnastics can still develop strong social skills and relationships, both within and outside the gym. In the book, I encourage parents to help their child maintain a balanced life by allowing time for friendships, family and non-gymnastics activities. I also discuss how the gymnastics family can support athletes and also help participants develop life skills that they will utilize throughout their lives.
Ultimately, I aimed to be transparent about the challenges while offering solutions and a balanced perspective. I hope parents come away from Parenting a Gymnast feeling both informed and empowered to support their child’s passion for the sport in a safe and healthy way.
IGO: What professional risks, if any, did you feel you were taking by writing this book?
JFS: The one surprising area I have encountered since writing the book is a little pushback from some – not all – gym owners who think that the book is too much information for their parents. I have also been unable or discouraged to sell the book in numerous gymnastics events where I thought the gymnastics community would embrace such a publication. The book seeks to be supportive of coaches and gym owners by educating and supporting positive communication.
I have been pleasantly surprised and excited that USA Gymnastics has endorsed the book and invited me to teach several webinars this year addressing mental health, communication and support of athletes, parents, coaches and gym owners.
IGO: Fairness and accountability in judging has always been a hot topic, so how do you think your perspective as an experienced judge, as presented in your book, will put parents at ease?
JFS: In Parenting a Gymnast, I took special care to address the issue of fairness and accountability in judging, knowing that it’s a hot topic for many parents. My perspective as an experienced judge allows me to provide an inside look into the process, which I hope will help put parents at ease. One of the main points I emphasize is that gymnastics judges are not only highly trained but also some of the most intelligent and fair-minded individuals I’ve encountered. Their dedication to maintaining the integrity of the sport is often under-appreciated, but it’s something I’ve witnessed consistently throughout my decades of judging.
I wanted to demystify the judging process for parents by explaining how judges are trained, the rigorous certification they must maintain, and the systems in place to ensure fairness and accountability. By shedding light on the hard work judges put into staying current with the sport’s evolving standards, I aim to dispel misconceptions that judging is subjective or inconsistent. I also discuss the extensive experience most judges have, not just in officiating but often as former athletes and coaches themselves, which gives them a well-rounded understanding of the sport.
Moreover, I highlight the professionalism and ethics that are deeply ingrained in the gymnastics judging community. I’ve seen firsthand the level of commitment to fairness that my fellow judges demonstrate, and I think it’s important for parents to know that these individuals care deeply about the athletes’ experiences. By providing this behind-the-scenes perspective, I hope parents come to trust the judging process and feel more confident that their child’s performance will be evaluated with accuracy and impartiality.
Ultimately, my goal in presenting this perspective in Parenting a Gymnast is to help parents focus on supporting their child’s growth and enjoyment of the sport, rather than worrying unnecessarily about the fairness of judging. Knowing that the system is built on professionalism and integrity can allow them to place more trust in the process and appreciate the dedication of the people working behind the scenes.
IGO: Which are the key misconceptions about parenting a gymnast that you feel are resolved in your book?
JFS: In Parenting a Gymnast, I aimed to resolve several key misconceptions that parents often have about the sport, particularly around competition, judging and the financial aspects of gymnastics. Some of the most common misunderstandings I address include:
The Path to Success: Many parents believe that rapid progress through the levels equates to long-term success or that their child must be on an Olympic trajectory to justify their commitment to the sport. In the book, I clarify that each gymnast’s journey is unique, and success is not always about reaching the highest levels quickly but about consistent growth, skill development and finding joy in the sport.Judging Fairness: There’s often a misconception that gymnastics judging is inconsistent or overly subjective. As an experienced judge, I provide parents with a clear explanation of how judges are trained, the strict protocols in place to ensure fairness and how scores are determined. I wanted to assure parents that judges work diligently to evaluate each gymnast fairly, based on established standards.Financial Investment: The costs associated with gymnastics can be overwhelming for many parents, and some misconceptions exist around what is truly necessary versus what might be optional. In the book, I break down the various expenses involved in the sport, from training fees to competition costs, and I offer tips on how to navigate these expenses wisely. I also clarify where the money goes and why certain investments, such as private lessons or equipment, may or may not be needed depending on a gymnast’s goals.The Role of Competition: Some parents may see competition as the end-all-be-all of gymnastics, when in reality, it’s just one aspect of a gymnast’s development. In Parenting a Gymnast, I explain how competition should be viewed as an opportunity for learning and growth, rather than a measure of a gymnast’s worth or potential. I encourage parents to focus on the long-term development of their child rather than short-term results.Parental Involvement: There’s a misconception that once a child is in a program, the coach takes full responsibility for their success and well-being. I emphasize the importance of parents maintaining an active, positive role in their child’s gymnastics journey – supporting not just their physical performance but also their emotional and mental well-being.
By addressing these misconceptions in a practical and straightforward way, I hope Parenting a Gymnast provides parents with the clarity they need to support their child with confidence, while navigating the complexities of the sport more easily.
To purchase Parenting a Gymnast click here.
About Julie Fabsik-Swarts:
Julie Fabsik-Swarts, MS, CFRE, CAP, CEAP has over 40 years of experience working for prestigious organizations including The Pennsylvania State University, the US Olympic and Paralympic Committee, the Seattle Organizing Committee of the Goodwill Games, the Purple Heart Foundation, UC Berkeley, Lock Haven University of Pennsylvania, the University of Pennsylvania and the American College.
In the nonprofit world she has served as the CEO of an Olympic sport and the National Intercollegiate Soccer Officials Association. She also led the National Postdoctoral Association serving more than 80,000 early career researchers. Fabsik-Swarts has served on the board of directors for nonprofits including the Philadelphia Committee on City Policy, Women in Development and the National Association of Women’s Gymnastics Judges. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for the National Center for SafeSport.
Fabsik-Swarts earned a Bachelor of Science from the San Diego State University and a Master of Science degree from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst. She is a Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE), a Chartered Advisor of Philanthropy (CAP) from the American College and a certified nonprofit executive from LaSalle University, as well as a Certified Employee Assistance Professional (CEAP).
Since 2021 Fabsik-Swarts has been working as the CEO of the Employee Assistance Professionals Association, where she leads an international organization in 40 countries supporting employee assistance professionals (EAPs), its board of directors and its certification commission. She is also president of Blue Tail Consulting.
Fabsik-Swarts, a former gymnast, is a nationally rated women’s gymnastics judge for over four decades for USA Gymnastics and the NCAA, and is certified to officiate collegiate tumbling and acrobatics (NCATA) competitions. She has coached for many years at the developmental level and spent five years as assistant coach at the University of Pennsylvania. She was a head judge at the 2024 NCAA Women’s Gymnastics Championships.
A certified master scuba diver, Fabsik-Swarts lives in Virginia with her husband and dive partner, Mike, and her three rescue dogs.
