9 Things You Can Do Today To Be A Better Sports Parent
9 Things You Can Do Today To Be A Better Sports Parent
- Understand the basic rules of the sport your child is playing.
- Keep negative opinions about the officials, the coach, and other players to yourself.
- Leave the coaching to the coaches. Don’t yell out instructions 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.
- Don’t reprimand or give unwanted advice to your child when they feel frustrated after losing a game, or they make a mistake, or play poorly. This is when they need you in their corner the most.
- NEVER shout insults or negative comments to ANYONE at a youth sports event, including the referees.
- 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.
- After the game, tell your child you love to watch them play.