Build Your Kid Early

Most parents want their kids to be successful, but how? Let us look at the introduction of sports. Sport is an integral part of socializing. That's one of the ways you learn to be part of something. Whatever sport you choose, you must take into consideration the factors. Does your child have an interest? If your kid is not interested, go ahead and move on. Find another sport or hobby of interest. Do not force-feed your child. Do not try to live vicariously through your child. If your child is showing a part, that's awesome. Let's talk about the Coaches. At the entry-level of recreational sports, children can experience the best moments of their lives. If you have a Coach or Coaches who are yelling at the kids, using foul language, and at times threatening the kids. Firmly encourage that so-called “Coach” to find something else to do because coaching is not for him or her. We want our kids to learn useful lessons during practice. Once the season is underway, sit back and enjoy your child. Cheer for all the kids, encourage all the kids, enjoy the outing. As a former coach and a parent of five, I can't begin to tell you how many parents have missed not taking videos or photos. Nowadays, no parent should miss or fail to take pictures or videos of their children during the competition. Your son and daughter practiced, studied, and worked to prove what they learned. Be supportive of the effort and hard work, support the coaches, and as parents, get to know one another. Do not be the parent who just watches and complains about everything not going right. After the game, pick up some ice cream or a burger. Tell your son or daughter how proud you are of them, share pictures and videos, let the kids see what they've accomplished. This will increase the confidence and self-esteem necessary to continue in life and sport. That's the cornerstone of a happy child and a future student-athlete.