How to Become a Savvy Sports Parent

A child can learn vital life skills such as communication and teamwork by taking part in organized sports. Children of all ages can enjoy sports. Unfortunately, many parents put unnecessary pressure on their children to perform well, and in some cases this leads to the child walking away from sports forever.

Things You'll Need

  • Sports Club Code of Conduct
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Instructions

    • 1

      Never force a child into taking up a sport just because you have a passion for that sport. Let the child look at a wide range of sports and choose one or more that he or she prefers.

      If you enter your kid into a league, make sure it's an organization that emphasizes fun and enjoyment. Avoid organizations or teams that have a 'must-win' attitude. If the organization has a written "code of conduct," check that out. It will give you clues to the organization's attitude.

    • 2

      Remember that children can vary greatly in co-ordination and athletic ability. Never downgrade your children if they are unable to match the skills of other kids their age. Allow your child to develop naturally instead of force-feeding information. Understand that it is more important to learn basic sporting skills in a fun environment than to be a world class athlete before the age of 10.

    • 3

      Avoid shouting from the sidelines when the child is taking part in a sport unless you are offering praise and encouragement. Remember that it is equally important to praise other children taking part in the game to help develop a positive and friendly sports culture, even if those children are players on the other team.

    • 4

      Never offer instructions to your child while a game is in progress. Leave the coach to make decisions about positioning and tactics. Remember that children respond better to one-voice management, and that they can easily become confused if several sets of parents are calling out with several different sets of instructions.

    • 5

      Allow young children to assess their own game instead of making observations and criticisms yourself. Never punish or show disappointment if your child loses at a sport.

    • 6

      Never question the decisions of officials or coaches. Remember that many adults who help to run sports clubs or officiate games are doing so as volunteers, and they should always be appreciated and respected for the sacrifices that they make for your child's sporting development. Never respond to a decision with anger or abusive language, and accept that in some cases, even the very best coaches and referees make mistakes.