Shawn Johnson admitted to pushing one of her children too hard in sports development. On July 2, the Olympic gold medalist revealed this during an appearance on The Bossticks.

What happened?

Shawn Johnson and her husband Andrew East were encouraged by a coach to fast-track their child's athletic development.

Johnson bought into the idea and put one of her kids on the fast track, but within a month, the child lost interest.

Why it matters for Shawn Johnson

This experience taught Johnson a valuable lesson about parenting and supporting her children's passions.

She and East have shifted their approach, now focusing on encouraging their kids without projecting their own ambitions.

What comes next?

Johnson and East are being more intentional about giving their children space to figure out what they like and dislike.

Johnson reflected on her own athletic career, saying her age worked in her favor when she competed at the 2008 Olympics.

She was 16 and not mature enough to digest the magnitude of the event, which she believes was a blessing.

Johnson won four medals at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, including gold on the balance beam.

She officially retired from gymnastics in 2012 after a knee injury ended her comeback bid.

Johnson married Andrew East, a former NFL player, in April 2016, and they have three children together.

The couple's approach to parenting has changed, and they are now prioritizing their children's happiness and well-being.

Johnson's experience serves as a reminder to parents to support their children's passions without pushing them too hard.

On July 2, Johnson shared her story, providing insight into her life as a parent and athlete.

Johnson and East's children are still young, with ages ranging from 2 to 6 years old.

Their parenting approach will continue to evolve as their children grow and develop their own interests.

Johnson's Olympic career was marked by her impressive performances, including her gold medal win on the balance beam.

Her experience as a parent has given her a new perspective on her own athletic career and the importance of supporting her children's passions.