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Hut, Hut, But...
Tackling Football with Your Toddler
By I.J. Schecter
"At the very least, getting your child interested allows you to watch the sports you like to watch without taking away from family time," says Steven Bleiwas from Toronto, Canada, dad to Justin, 4, and Rachel, 2.
Kaz Cooke, author of Kid-Wrangling (Ten Speed Press, 2005), says at a more sophisticated level you can use the opportunity to impart a lesson or two about principles of right and wrong by pointing out examples of players doing "bad" things, such as throwing tantrums or using dirty tactics, or "good" things, such as congratulating a teammate on a nice play.
First, it requires a bit more planning than you're used to. Instead of just making sure you have the requisite refreshment money and giant foam No. 1 finger, you're going to ned a few other items. For toddlers and preschoolers, remember to pack snacks and drinks. Bring backup underwear and pants just in case the game proves enough of a distraction to cause an accident (in which case you'll be indescribably proud of both the game for being so compelling and your child for falling in love with it). Pack an extra sweater or jacket. Finally, stash a favorite toy or book in your knapsack, as there is the slight possibility junior won't be as riveted by the game as you imagine.