Bullying Problems in Youth Sports
Sports parents, you need to worry about bullies in youth sports.
Why?
Because bullies permeate the youth sports scene, and kids don’t like to talk about being bullied…
Athletes are embarrassed – and often won’t tell their parents, coaches or friends that they’re being harassed, intimidated, excluded from social groups, or even physically harmed.
When sports kids don’t speak up, they often start to fear going to practice and games. Their confidence drops. In fact, they may even suddenly drop out of sports.
So, what can you do?
First of all, make sure your kids’ coaches establish an inclusive team culture that clearly prohibits bullying. There’s no harm in asking your coaches what they do to prevent bullying. Just be sure to talk to them when they’re not busy coaching.
Second, keep the lines of communication open so that your kids feel comfortable talking to you about bullies and being bullied. You might ask them if they see kids on the team harassing or teasing others. That starts the conversation.
If you suspect that your kids or anyone else on your kids’ teams are the target of bullies, take immediate action…
Begin by talking to the coaches. If they don’t cooperate, contact league administrators. Talk to other parents. Band together.
Whatever you do, don’t let bullies continue to harm your athlete or the team.
Want to learn more about how to deal with bullies in sports and ensure your kids stay mentally tough in the face of bullies?
We’ve got a great program for you that helps your kids stay confident and mentally tugh in the face of bullies. It also teaches you how to take action.
Check it out here:
Helping Young Athlete Stay Mental Tough in the Face of Bullies
Related Articles on Kids’ Mental Game:
- Help Girls Feel Confident In Spite of Bullies
- Protecting Sports Kids From Predators, Bullies and Other Dangers
- Helping Girls Feel More Confident in Sports
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Hi,
Nowadays bullies in youth sports is serious topic. We should educate our kids about the same because sometimes kids don’t understand what is happening with them and to whom to share, So whenever we notice some changes in our kids behavior then we should talk to them and try to figure out the problem very soon.
Consequences of bullies and harassment can be dangerous for your family.
“Kids will be kids” has covered up some pretty horrible behaviors among young players. Sure, kids will tease and joke with each other but there is a line and when it gets crossed no child should be left to suffer in silence. If your son/daughter hates sports because they are being bullied you have the right and the duty to stand up for them!