"Fly like an Eagle" Newsletter
 
“Parents of young athletes” 

Parents play a key role in the development of their children through the activities and sports in which their kids choose to participate. For a parent to be the best they can be in their support role it is important to understand some key concepts. This also gives the child athlete the best chance of performing well and having a rewarding experience.

Each year we hear on the news stories about parents getting involved in arguments with other parents, sometimes escalating into violence, with the catalyst being a sporting event involving children. These are extreme cases, but they illustrate a concept of parents not understanding their roles in supporting their children in their athletic endeavors. I can remember, from my childhood, fellow athletes whose parents often expressed their dissatisfaction with their performance, were overly critical, did not provide positive reinforcement or whose parents were overly involved in the sporting events, making it about the parents and not the kids. I can also remember fellow athletes whose parents were uninterested in supporting them in any way. These parents clearly did not understand their roles and the performance and experience of their kids were affected.
Let’s explore some positive parental roles.

Support - exposing kids to activities/sports and letting them decide the ones they want to pursue. Arranging for appropriate attendance. Providing necessary equipment. Understanding that it is all about the kids!

Boosting Confidence - praise and unconditional approval, providing positive reinforcement and constructive feedback.

Reinforce - what they are taught such as the importance of work ethic, practice, goals, and perseverance.

Have Fun - once the preparation process has been completed I have 2 thoughts that I send kids out with the day before a tournament. 1: do your best, 2: have fun. At this point, all anyone can do, is the best they can do that day and it is important to enjoy what you are doing.

Renshi Mark Gorman, June 2008
 

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