There’s no denying that parents and carers are essential to youth sports. Without their active participation, junior clubs would struggle to find players, coaches, administrators, referees, and spectators. Also, parents and carers make financial, social and work sacrifices to keep children in junior sport.

Unfortunately, some parents and carers behave inappropriately at youth sporting matches.  So, while we all want our children to succeed on the court, poor sideline behaviour can have profound and detrimental impact on kids participation and enjoyment of sport.

 

Let Kids Be Kids - kids talk about their experiences at junior sport from Play by the Rules on Vimeo.

 Tips for Mums & Dads

• Be a good role model. Children watch and learn from you, so make sure you set a good example.
• Avoid a ‘win at all costs’ attitude. Although you may think winning is important, the focus for junior sport should be on fun.
• Be aware that your abusive behaviour may be against the law. Ask yourself, ‘Would my mother be upset or offended by what I am saying or doing?’ If the answer is yes then it’s best to sit down and be quiet.
• Try not to be critical of coaches, referees or umpires. Many are volunteers who give their time to make sport possible for all our children, and some are just learning. If you have some constructive advice for them, leave it until after the game or have a chat with the head coach or referee.

 

 

For more Tips visit

https://www.playbytherules.net.au/conduct-and-behaviour/tips-for-parents

https://australiansportscamps.com.au/blog/parent-sideline-behaviour/