Parent Resources

Submitted by admin on Fri, 08/05/2011 - 03:01

TIPS FOR PARENTS

Learn the game together. Be as helpful,understanding and patient as you are when your child is learning other skills in life. You are your child’s first and most influential teacher/coach. The stimulation and support you provide can help your child gain the greatest possible benefit from participating in youth sports and instill a desire to play soccer. Make this learning experience together as much fun as possible so your child becomes self motivated and improves on his/her own.

Before the Game Maintain your family’s routine as much as possible. Keep family conversation “usual” (focusing on the game can cause unneeded stress). Dinner the evening before a game should include plenty of fluids and something from each of the five food groups. (Carbohydrates provide muscle fuel and energy.)

GAME DAY!!!

Eating Tips
If possible, eat a light meal three hours before the game for proper digestion. The meal should include the five food groups. To provide the needed energy, eat more carbohydrates. For our early Saturday morning games, a light cereal, oatmeal, yogurt or fruit breakfast is a good choice.

Water consumption
Fifteen to thirty minutes before the game, drink up to 20 ounces of water. Get assurance from the coach that more than one cup of water will be provided at half time. After the game, drink plenty of water to re-hydrate. At the Field—When the coach arrives and takes charge, assume the role of spectator and remain behind the spectator line (unless otherwise requested by the coach or manager).

Let Coaches Coach & Referees Ref!
Sideline instructions may conflict with what the coach has taught and may confuse the players. Your child mirrors your actions and reactions, so set a good example. If you want to raise a good sport, be a good sport. If you feel you cannot be an exemplary spectator, consider not attending.

AFTER THE GAME
Have your child remain with the coach and the team for any post-game routines.
Do:
 Adopt an attitude of support and caring
 Be positive and calm
 Point out areas of improvement
 Let the child lead the conversation
 Stress effort made rather than results

Don't:
 Be disappointed if your child does not want to talk about the game
 Be negative
 Brag
 Be critical
 Make up excuses

Remember that body language and voice inflection can send both positive and negative messages. Help your child realize that the importance of playing soccer is participation, learning, developing and having FUN!

Here are some links to some useful websites for sport parenting.

  Sport Parenting Websites: