9 Things You Can Do Today To Be A Better Sports Parent

9 Things You Can Do Today To Be A Better Sports Parent

1. Know the basic rules of the sport your child is playing.
2. Keep negative opinions about the officiating, the coach, and other players to yourself.
3. 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.
4. Cheer on all the players on the team, not just your own.
5. 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.
6. NEVER shout insults at ANYONE at a youth sports event.
7. 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.)
   
8. Don’t spread gossip or speak negatively about other children, the coach, or other parents in front of your athlete, ever.
9. Get in the car and tell your child you love to watch them play. That’s it.