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Fair Play
Give the Game Back to the Kids
By Scott Lancaster
Individualism and creativity are missing from traditional organized sports – another reason kids get disenchanted and drop out. Letting them create their own games or work on the skill of their choice gives them an ownership stake in their own development. It makes for happy kids and happy parents.
The most important role of any parent or coach is to teach and prepare players for eventual competition. Empower kids and coach them to manage their own game experiences. You will be greatly rewarded in witnessing your child taking on this responsibility, and you will be teaching your team a valuable skill. As a coach, if you have taught the game properly, there is no need for you to hang close by at game time. Take an active role as an advisor during games (timeouts, halftimes, between innings, etc.) to teach with positive reinforcement.
Most parents find themselves frustrated with their child's sports experience, yet they struggle to find tactful ways to approach the coach to create a dialogue and make suggestions. Gather all team parents together and discuss your observations and concerns. Then assign one person to sit down with the coach to talk it over. This will provide valuable feedback to a coach and open a line of communication that will prevent future misunderstandings.
By following these suggestions, parents can help return youth sports to what they are supposed to be: a chance to learn new skills, develop teamwork and self-esteem and just have fun
