Ah . . . the fencing bag. Is there anything more ubiquitous in the fencing gym than this little gem?

For fencing mom’s the fencing bag is loved and feared. We love it because it helps our kids to become more independent, taking control of their gear and showing their responsibility. We fear it because you never quite know what you’re going to find inside!

Fencing bags can often be home to mysterious smells and strange objects. They’re the realm of our kids! Like an extension of their person. As our kids get older, the fencing bag really becomes a part of their personal space, and to violate it is to ignore those oh so important boundaries.

Here are some tips from me to you on how to help your children take care of their fencing bag.

●    Good cleaning habits

Just as your child had to learn to do their homework and to brush their teeth as good habits, so too do they need to learn to make it a habit of cleaning their fencing bag regularly. A great place to start is simply unpacking when they get home. It doesn’t have to be everything, but there are a few things that really must come out, namely:

• Shoes and socks (they’ll stink up the bag quickly!)
• Crumpled uniforms (need to be hung up or washed!)
• Trash (granola bar wrappers, notes, bits of kid junk)
• Empty and wash out water bottles (to prevent mold!)

Periodically the bag and it’s contents will need a deeper cleaning. This might be as simple as hanging it all out to air out or as complex as actually washing down the bag according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Once or twice a season is plenty unless there is some other call for it.

●   Future planning

In your child’s bag should be a spare pair of socks and insoles if they wear them. The bag becomes the hub of activity, the thing to rely on in times when they need them! Take some time to put together a small bag and then leave it inside your child’s bag to make sure that they have everything that the need

●   Odor reduction

This is SUCH A big one! Stay ahead of this one as much as you can, being sure to have your child remove any excess gear that might be contributing and give it a good scrub down. While deodorant air freshener can be a bit much, you might try something as simple as throwing some scented dryer sheets in the bag to ease everyone’s noses!

●   Quality

This one isn’t in the bag, but rather it’s the bag itself. It’s important that you get your child’ a good quality bag. It’s well worth it to invest in something that’s both sturdy and comfortable to carry, as it will last them for years as long as it holds up!

●   Good notes form you

Is there ANYTHING that makes someones day as bright as a note from mom or dad? Sneak a sentiment of good will or encouragement into your child’s bag and you’ll find that it will help them so much more than you know! Imagine how great it would make you feel! This is hands down one of the most incredible gifts that you can give to your child, this simple gesture of faith in them and hope for the challenges ahead. Fencing is hard, and your child is working hard, so let them know you see it.

What’s the thing that you as a parent do for your child when it comes to their fencing bag? We want to know! What’s in YOUR fencing bag?

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Academy of Fencing Masters Blog