What do you think about parents' influence in their kids sport?

Question

is it a good or a bad thing to be involved in our kids sports?
Thanks for your help.

Answer 1

Like the previous answerer, I think scale of influence is important--be supportive only, and do not get upset when the kid makes a mistake or is not the best on the team.

I think it's best, too, if kids were able to resolve their conflicts without much adult interference: remember getting together with the kids on the block to play baseball (and using the garden hose, the corner of the house, etc. as bases)? Kids learned how to resolve conflicts, problem-solve creatively, and how to make the best of an imperfect situation (don't have enough bases? make "ghost" bases).

In league games, the parents and the coaches are in control from start to finish, and while that's has its place, I would like to see kids getting together more for kid-friendly games (adults can supervise by being present, but not coaching or problem-solving for the kids).

Answer 2

Encouragement is great. However, I've seen too many parents living vicariously through their kids. It becomes what the parent wants instead of what the kid wants. Most parents aren't like that.

A lot of kids get burned out with a sport and want to quit partway through the season. While the kid's wishes need to be accepted, I like it when a parent makes the kid stick it out through the season. It builds character and makes them better.

I'm a sports writer for a newspaper, I see this kind of thing all the time.

Answer 3

I think its an excellent thing for parents to be involved in their kids sports

Answer 4

I think parents should have a good influence in their kid's sport, but they shouldn't get so into it. That would make their kid not do as well I think.

Answer 5

Parental involvement in youth sport is a very good thing however we have all seen the bad sport parent.They are not good for the sport or child

Answer 6

no, not really. i mean-every parent should keep an eye on their kid-you never know about other people's intentions, but without that, parents should let the coach do their job-there are many lessons to learn from kid sports programs-teamwork, competition, planning and organization, the art of losing gracefully, and social interaction between peers. Parents should guide at home and let the cookies fall on the field, then guide some more back at home!

Answer 7

I think it is good to be involved, but not obsessed. I also believe that children may be involved with sports far to much and families are left with so little family time. One sport per child per season seems like plenty.

Answer 8

There's nothing worse than forcing a child into a sport you love. Allow the child to select their own sport and be there for them.
When my oldest began soccer I saw several parents pushing their kids into it and the kids were just not interested in it. I allowed my child to do what he wanted and then totally supported his decision. I went to every practice (with two younger children in tow) and every game. I did not understand the game - but I was there for him and that was important to him.

Answer 9

That would be wonderful for your child, just stay back and let them know your there. Have you noticed children involved in sports or music do not get in to trouble?

Answer 10

I play city softball and co-ed basketball. Basketball just got over and softball starts soon. My children come with me all the time. My 9 year old plays both of these sports as well.