Engaging our children in various sports, from Super Bowl to the World Cup and the World Series, where they see on TV, and having the dream of becoming a professional. As parents, we understand the importance of providing a diverse sporting landscape for our children to discover their passions and build essential life skills. This offers them a unique opportunity to view how teamwork is done. The importance of being within a team can teach our children many skills. They will learn so many skills. At the level of youth sports, they have different levels, and any levels they choose will teach them how to promote good sportsmanship, along with their love for the sport. We understand the importance of providing a diverse sporting landscape for our children to discover their passions and build essential life skills.
From a parental perspective, we see everything from the outer lens, either in high school or in college. Some parents had the opportunity to make it to the professional level. Through these sporting experiences, our young athletes learn not only to stand tall when they succeed but also to find their footing when they stumble. When they stumble as parents, we have to keep our emotions at bay. As a parent, I often experience a range of emotions that surface in different situations. I will share strategies on how to maintain composure when your little athlete is not performing as you expect.
1. Manage Expectations:
Managing expectations is paramount, and it’s a common pitfall for many parents. It’s crucial to align our goals with our children’s goals in sports. Sometimes, we lose sight of their aspirations, and realistic performance expectations are essential in youth sports. Our kids will inevitably experience both good and challenging days on the field or court. Youth sports are precisely that – an opportunity for our children to have fun and grow through learning the sport. So, as the game begins, it’s important to keep our expectations in check. Sit down with your child and remind them of the primary reasons they’re participating – to enjoy themselves and develop their skills.
2. Effective Communication:
Sometimes, we may not realize the impact of our words when providing feedback to our children in their sports endeavors. It’s essential to remember that they are there to learn and enjoy, and they are not professional athletes. Our primary responsibility is to ensure they have a positive experience and leave the field or court with a smile. Encouraging open and constructive communication with our children is key. We should consciously avoid criticism and undue pressure, both during and after the games. Instead, here are a few supportive phrases we can offer:
Great work out there!
I like how you do this?
You gave it your all today
You’re improving with every game
Your hard work paid off.
I’m so proud of your effort
Consider these guidelines valuable tools to help you provide supportive and constructive comments. By adhering to these principles, you can enhance your communication and contribute to your child’s positive sports experience.
3. Enjoy the Experience:
In every sporting endeavor, fostering good sportsmanship and cherishing the moments and experiences are paramount. These are the memories that will shape their outlook on sports, and in the future, when they have their own families, they will recall the impact of their youth sports experiences. While perfection may elude us, we have the opportunity to make their journey enjoyable and memorable. This not only builds their confidence but also instills values that will resonate into adulthood. By emphasizing sportsmanship, fun, and enjoyment, we provide them with a solid foundation for a positive relationship with sports that extends well beyond their youth.
I trust these suggestions have influenced you to consider your approach and emotional management in youth sports. By implementing these steps, you can better support your family, and cultivate a refreshed perspective for yourself.
