The Parents' Role on the Sidelines
What is the Parents’ Role on the Sidelines?
Do you think your child is getting the most out of lacrosse? The sport provides a fun, athletic activity that also builds teamwork, character and leadership skills. As parents, we always want the best for our kids. Have you ever thought about how you can help your young player get more out of lacrosse?
Why do kids want to play?
So why do kids stop playing?
Studies have shown that it is mostly due to adult interference as a result from:
What does this mean to you a parent? Most parents on the sideline are very positive. We all want the best for our child. How do we help them get the most out of their experience?
First think of your own experiences. What if your boss stopped by several times a day to tell you how to do your job? Or worse, imagine giving a presentation to your peers and your boss consistently yells out what you should say or do, just before you do it. Would you enjoy being in that environment? Would you learn or improve? Most people answer no.
Now put yourself into the cleats of your child, with parents yelling and “coaching” from the sidelines. Consider that we work hard to teach our kids to listen and respect what we have to say. Now they’re playing a game and we’re shouting commands and instructions. This is not the best way for kids to learn the game and grow. It is often stated, "There is no better teacher than the game itself." We want them to play sports so they learn to think for themselves and react in the moment to make good decisions.
What is the best way to prevent this from happening? Practice, just like the players, thinking about what you will say on the way to the game. Visualize yourself on the sidelines encouraging while not coaching. During the game stop every so often and reflect back on what you just said. Does it match with what you planned to do and say? Also, listen to what others are shouting. This alone can be very instructive.
Every child wants to be cheered during the game. Continue to celebrate the good plays and hard work that every play is contributing.
What to do on the ride home? Celebrate all the small victories achieved on the field. Don’t focus on the goals and the biggest plays. Focus on the whether or not they learned anything and had fun. Most importantly ask your player what they thought of the game. At this point, the player needs a parent much more than another coach.
At no time should you question or demean the coach in the presence of your child. Rather, approach the coach separately in a calm manner and ask any questions you may have to begin a dialogue.
Remember the game is for the kids to play, and for us to enjoy watching. So, let the kids play!
