Leaving gymnastics can feel like losing a part of her identity and it’s okay for her to grieve that loss. Give her the space to feel it, and gently remind her that while one chapter is closing, another is just beginning. Help her see this as a chance to explore new sides of herself — ones that are always there, just waiting for room to grow.
Support her in honoring everything gymnastics gave her: the discipline, strength, and resilience for which she worked so hard. Those qualities haven’t disappeared; they’ve simply outgrown the mat and are ready to show up in new and meaningful ways.