Tips for Being a More Supportive Parent

Every parent wants their child to one day grow up and say, “I had the best Mom,” or, “My Dad’s the greatest.”

You don’t have to be perfect to one day hear those words, but you should be loving and supportive of your children. This is especially true for sports parents. They often have a tendency to put too much pressure on their children. Their intentions are good, but they sometimes cause their children to resent them along the way.

To avoid this plight, there are some tips you should keep in mind.   

Allow Your Child to Try New and Different Things

One big tip is to let your child try things that interest him or her. If your child wants to quit sports when the season is over and try dance instead, allow it, as tough as it may be for you. Allowing your child to try new things will keep sports burnout from happening. Plus, if your child is truly passionate about a particular sport, he’ll come back to it.

Keep Things Fun

Also remember, as a parent, to keep things fun and light with sports. Don’t put pressure on your kids, or yell at them for their performance. That’s the coach’s job, not yours. Just do your part by encouraging your child, letting him talk to you and vent when needed, and just being as encouraging and loving as possible.

Go to Every Game

Finally, no matter what sport your child takes up, be there at every game cheering your child on. They may not show it, but it will mean the world to them, both now and in the future. And, if your child takes up a new interest, be there for those events too, even if it means sitting through a science fair or something that isn’t really your “thing.” If it’s your kid’s thing, it should become yours too.

As you can see, being a supportive parent can be hard sometimes, but if you’re committed to it, you can do it. And you’ll help your child immensely in the process.