Interesting Information

Encouraging Sportsmanship

Children and teens often learn by example, so as a parent, it's important to become a model of sportsmanlike behavior. Cheer for, encourage, and praise your child or teen, as well as others for participating in sports. Remember that sports are about having fun, learning new physical skills, focus, self discipline, and how to get along with others. And it's these skills, not just winning, that help your child develop self-esteem.

Are YOU a Pressure/Pushy Sports Parent?

If you answer "yes" to one or more of these questions, you may be in danger of pressuring your child.

1. Are you more concerned about your child winning than if your child had fun participating?

2. Do you show your disappointment if he/she has a poor performance?

3. Do you shout negative, critical remarks at your child, other children, the coaches or officials?

4. Do you talk to the coach a lot about the way he/she coaches the game and what positions each of the children are playing?

5. Do you get in game related arguments with other parents?

6. Do you find yourself disliking your child's opponents?

7. Do you provide material rewards for performance?

8. Do you constantly compare your child's skills to others?

9. Do you punish or act coldly towards your child if he/she doesn't perform to your expectations?

10. Do you want your child to win more than he/she does?

11. Do you push your child with the hopes of getting an athletic scholarship, or have expectations of your child having a pro sports career?

Winning, Losing and Playing the Game

Winning is nice, losing is tough, but for children (and you) what should be most important is how they played the game. After the game, avoid asking competitive-based questions such as: "did you win?", "did you score a goal?" Competitive-based questions can trigger feelings of failure, guilt, embarrassment and shame, and cause confusion in your child's mind about the primary purpose of participation. Instead, help children to objectively evaluate their performance. Ask performance related questions such as: "What went well?", "What needs to be improved?", "What were some highlights?"

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