Hi Everyone! It’s ME—Simone Biles—proud member of the Ask Listen Learn team!

Back to school is a season full of energy, excitement, and change. It can also be a little nerve racking—for parents, kids AND educators too! We all want to have the best experiences and surround ourselves with the people who will support as us as we work towards our goals.

I had the honor to spend time at Arlington Science Focus School in Arlington, VA during April—Alcohol Responsibility Month—last school year. I really loved taking the time to speak to the students there about being the best they can be. Take a look at my visit and listen to the questions the kids had for me about peer pressure, decision-making, and even what I like to eat before a competition.

As kids grow up, they are faced with so many decisions and obstacles—and it was so wonderful to see all of the enthusiasm and smiles that they brought to the auditorium. The twinkles in their eyes really are what it’s all about.

As your kids are heading back to school this year, treasure that enthusiasm and help them grow! Kids are ready to learn and optimistic. They are resilient when things go wrong and ever-so-positive when things go right. I encourage all parents and educators to take advantage of this time to start conversations about the tough stuff that may come up as they start moving forward into becoming teenagers. All kids have questions—so talk to them and offer the answers that they need. Sometimes the answer can be as simple as a hug or a pat on the back. But when things get a little tougher, they need your words of wisdom and experience.

I like being part of the Ask, Listen, Learn team because I believe that conversations about underage drinking should begin early at home and continue in the classroom so that kids are empowered to make the best decisions they can with confidence to reach their goals. The videos and games are great for kids, and the website has a wealth of information for parents and educators.  The bottom line is that saying YES to a healthy lifestyle and NO to underage drinking is absolutely the way to go – and I wouldn’t be where I am today if I didn’t make those decisions myself.

I’m ready to get back to the gym soon to start working on my next chapter of goals. Make sure your kids are ready to get back to school to work on theirs! I’m confident that I will reach my goals and perform to the highest of my potential—and I know that you and your kids will do the same!

Have a wonderful back to school season!
Simone Biles
Most decorated American gymnast

Watch my full trip here!