9 Things You Can Do Today To Be A Better Sports Parent
- Know the basic rules of the sport your child is playing.
- Keep negative opinions about the officiating, the coach, and other players to yourself.
- Leave the coaching to the coaches. Don’t yell out instructions and tips to your kid from the sideline. It is ineffective and distracts your child.
- Cheer on all the players on the team, not just your own.
- NEVER reprimand or give unwanted advice when your child feels frustrated after losing a game, makes a mistake or completely blows it. That is when they need you most.
- NEVER shout insults at ANYONE at a youth sports event.
- Smile when your child looks at you in the stands, even when they have just completely blown it. (Hint: if your child looks to you to see your reaction each time they make a mistake, take that as a sign you are putting too much pressure on them. They shouldn’t be worrying about what their parents think in the middle of game.)
- Don’t spread gossip or speak negatively about other children, the coach, or other parents in front of your athlete, ever.
- Get in the car and tell your child you love to watch them play. That’s it.
