The following are ten rules parents should follow while at their child's sporting events.
- Talk about the other children the same way you would like other parents to talk about your child.
- Make sure you let the coaches, referees/umpire, know how much you appreciate them taking the time to teach your child the sport. Most of these people are volunteer who spend their own time to help your child.
- Remind your child that winning isn't everything. All kids want to win, make sure you point out how well your child played even if they didn't win.
- Don't point out every mistake your child made to him or her. They know when they've made an error, they need your support not critism.
- Smile and cheer. Sports are about having fun and your child will have more fun knowing that you are too.
- Be a good sport. You need to set a good example for your child to follow.
- Learn the rules of the game with your child.
- If you love to cheer at the game, make sure it is always praise or encouragement.
- No bad language. Sometimes parents can get carried away in the excitement of the game. Under no circumstance should foul language be used.
- Support your child. Give them praise, tell them you're proud of them whether they win or lose.
Wolfe