Sport Parents Behavior Before Games
Lisa Cohn here to tell you all about the challenges I encountered before my son’s first soccer game.
Truth is, I was nervous for Michael. He’s six years old and this was the first sports game he had ever played. I wanted it to be a positive experience for him. I worried that if anything went wrong, he’d never want to return to soccer.
Last year, he signed up to play, and never put his foot on the field. So I had reason to be nervous. I didn’t want to push him into soccer, but I really wanted him to experience the many benefits of playing sports.
So, I tried to follow some of my own tips. I didn’t talk too much about the game before it took place. I tried to get him there on time (one of my weaknesses as a sports mom is always rushing in at the last moment). And just as he got on the field, I waved and said, “Have fun out there!” I kept my worries to myself.
Turns out, Michael had a blast- even though he kicked the ball in the wrong direction the first time he got his foot on it. The good news was that he felt confident enough to put his foot on the ball and kick. And he did- again and again!
Sports parents, how you behave before a game is critical…
If you discuss the game, be positive. Don’t point out kids’ weaknesses. Be sure to let your kids know you love them no matter what happens! And be a good role model. Don’t show your jitters if you’re nervous.
Want to learn more about how to boost your athletes’ confidence before a game?
At Kids’ Sports Psychology, we’ve got a great resource for you — a pre-game checklist. Exclusive members can access it here:
Sports Parents’ Pre-Game Checklist For Helping Kids Feel Confident
What’s more, we’ve got articles, ebooks, audios, videos, additional checklists -and more- all designed to boost your kids’ confidence and your sports parenting skills.
Related Articles on Youth Sports:
- How Sports Moms Help Dads Build Kids’ Confidence
- Why Young Athletes Give Up in Sports
- How Parents’ Sideline Behavior Can Hurt and Help Athletes
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