Let the coaches coach. Telling your child to do something different from what his/her coach is saying can be distracting and confusing.
Let the kids play. A yelling parent can cause kids to lose focus on the field. Trust that the coaches have instructed your child well; if your child makes a mistake, don’t worry—he or she will learn from it.
- Don’t discuss the play of specific young players in front of other parents. Avoid favoritism or negative comments about others.
- Address issues in a positive way. Speak about the positive qualities of players, coaches, and families.
- Don’t complain about coaches to other parents. Plan private meetings if you have genuine concerns.
- Be encouraging. Positive comments from the sidelines boost children on the field.
- Avoid making negative comments about players on the other team.
- Be courteous and maintain healthy interactions with parents of the other team.
- Remember, the “other” team isn’t the enemy. Parents are there to watch their kids play, just like you.
- Don’t criticize the referees. They are trying to be fair, even if they miss calls.
- Don’t blame others. Avoid directing outbursts at referees, coaches, or parents.
- Don’t offer superficial support to officials. Genuine respect matters more.
- Avoid walking up and down the sidelines. Let the coaches manage instructions during play.
- Be conscientious. Think before you act in the heat of the moment.
- Let it go. Address issues positively after the game, not immediately on the field.
By following these guidelines, parents and supporters help create a positive and productive environment for young athletes, fostering learning, teamwork, and sportsmanship.