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 Parent's Corner |
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Tuesday, March 26
Guide for a Soccer Parent
1. Talk about the other kids on the team--indeed, on both teams--in the same manner you would want other parents to talk about your child. This is the golden rule applied to sports. Watching kids sports tends to be a social affair. When you're making conversation on the sideline with your friends and neighbours, think about what you're saying before you actually say it. To always be on the safe side, only voice praise for the other children. That way, you'll never go wrong.
2. It's nice to give the coach a pat on the back when he or she wins. It's even nicer when you give the coach a pat on the back after a loss. Remember that the vast majority of coaches are volunteers who are sacrificing their own time to help you kid. So give them a well-deserved salute, especially when their team hasn't fared well that day.
3. Don't hesitate to give the referee a pat on the back, either. As you might have guessed, referees are people, often young ones, and they like when parents and fans acknowledge their on-field efforts as well.
4. Remind your child that it's the effort that counts. We know all the kids want to win. That's a given. But we also know that for every winning team, there's also a loser. Be prepared to cushion your child's disappointment after a loss by pointing out that he or she played hard and put forth a tremendous effort.
5. Avoid the P.G.A., the Postgame Analysis. When the game is over and your child climbs back into your car, avoid at all costs the detailed, excruciating postgame analysis of everything they did right and wrong. Just let them chill out, savor the fun of having played, and relax. The absolute worst time for "friendly criticism" is immediately after the game.
6. Smile. A lot. Kid's sports are about having fun, and because kids take their behavioural cues from you, try at least to look like you're enjoying yourself.
7. If you aren't a "good sport" at the games, the kids won't be either. This should be self-evident. If you set a pattern of being a sideline loudmouth who likes to yell and scream at the referee, coach or opposing team, don't be surprised when your kids start copying your behaviour.
8. Take the time to learn the rules of the game. You may not be familiar with the rules of soccer. So if you don't know the rules of the game, maybe you shouldn't comment.
9. If you must make noise at the games, shout only praise and encouragement. If you're a screamer and yeller, make certain that when you open your mouth, you're only pouring forth cheerful encouragement for your child's team. There's never any place for derogatory, snide or sarcastic comments at kids' games.
10. Be there for your children. Support them, praise them, and let them know you love them, regardless of the final score.
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