Supporting Your Kids from the Sidelines
We’ve all witnessed them: the overzealous team moms and dads, seemingly more invested in the game than their own children. It sometimes feels like they’re running the show—acting as referees, coaches, and parents all at once!
One of the greatest joys of parenthood is watching your child participate in sports. That first time they join a team and learn a new sport is a milestone, affirming their growth. Whether they’re trying something new or honing existing skills, sports offer invaluable opportunities for childhood development—fresh air, exercise, and, above all, fun!
Saturday mornings are filled with excitement as we don our new uniforms and gear up for the game. We share in our children’s anticipation as they chatter about playing with friends or focusing on coach’s instructions. These early experiences on the field are brimming with excitement, as children embrace the thrill of real games and the camaraderie of teamwork.
But what can quickly dampen this excitement? The sideline coach—the parent who insists on giving instructions despite not being the coach. My husband, a coach himself, often reminds parents during those initial meetings: “Remember, Joey is 8 years old and new to lacrosse. He can’t juggle instructions from both of us. Let him listen to me during practice; it’ll benefit him.”
During parent meetings or communications, it’s crucial to set expectations: let the kids learn. Just as they learn in school, let them absorb the sport under the guidance of their coach. Children thrive when learning from mentors, and the coach can fill that role. Remember, no one’s getting recruited to the NFL from the local rec league!
Coaches aspire to develop not just soccer skills but also life skills. They relish the opportunity to teach children quick decision-making and resilience in the face of challenges. These are the lessons that shape future adults.
So, enjoy your child’s game today! Let the coach do the coaching. Encourage your child to learn and listen, fostering their growth on and off the field. And on the way home, ask them if they had fun—and if they want ice cream!