Talking About Kids tips for January 8th's program, Children and Sports

Tips for you and your child

Be aware of your motivation for your child's participation in sports. The focus should be on your child's learning and fun, not on their performance.

A major benefit of sports participation is to help your child learn from failure, and how to cope with it.

Help your child think about how to balance his or her time to avoid undue pressures from homework and other responsibilities.

Avoid telling a child upset about his or her performance "not to feel that way." Try to understand your child's feelings and focus on what he or she did well instead of what he or she did not do well.

Celebrate your child's efforts, not just winning.

Know the expectations and rules of your child's coach early on. If you dislike the coach's approach, talk with him or her directly.

When possible, choose a coach who emphasizes fun, skill development, and character development more than just winning.

Stay aware of the coaching your child is receiving by talking with the coach and occasionally attending practices.

Try to ensure that your child's coach tries to improve everyone's skill level, not just the skills of the better players.

For more information, contact:
Michael Lowe, Ph.D
Allegheny University of the Health Sciences
Broad and Race MS 626
Philadelphia, PA l9l02
(215) 762-4849