Questions are the new answer, so I recently heard. So in sharing these questions, I challenge us all as sports parents to look inside ourselves for answers that may help our children grow up strong in character.
What do I want my child to get out of his sports experience?
Am I forcing my child to play or is this something they really want?
Do I stir up negative attitudes in my child by talking negatively at home about the coach or team?
Is my child afraid he is disappointing me after a weak performance?
How can I help my child get the most out of her sports experience?
Do I stress winning or personal achievement?
Why is it so important to me that my child has success in their sports?
There is not one right answer to all these questions. Most sports parents struggle with all of these at one time or another, even if they are not aware of it.
Such good questions. My youngest is a senior this year and plays volleyball. We tried to make it a family affair and stressed that is a game. I was amazed at the girls who cried or got angry over a game. I actually think Emily did better because there wasn’t the pressure on her. She missed only one serve the whole season.
I’m a new follower from Between the Lines.
Hi Pamela! Glad to connect with you. My oldest is also a senior and is right now visiting four colleges and meeting with volleyball coaches. I love watching her play; volleyball is so fun!
Oh gosh. My kiddos are small still, but I feel so much anxiety for them when they play. These questions are great, I just have to dig deep to find the answers.
Nicki, I think we all have to dig deep….part of the problem is that we are usually not honest with ourselves. No one likes to admit when they are doing things with the wrong motives, especially parents who are trying to live through their kids!