how to be a supportive parent
Sports play a significant role in child development. They contribute to motor skill development, social skills, mental toughness, and more. Being a supportive parent to your child’s development in sports is necessary for making them more consistent and allowing them to reap all of the associated benefits.
The question is, how can you be a more supportive parent?
Let’s discuss.
- Encourage Personal Development
Encouraging your child to be selfless and play their role in a team’s success is beneficial for helping them develop valuable social skills. But, aside from that, it’s necessary to emphasize personal development and effort. Doing so will help your kids learn the value of hard work and minor, steady improvements. In addition, encouraging personal development shows your child that you value them and their effort far more than the outcome. This is particularly important when kids are young and still learning the nuances behind healthy competition and self-improvement.
- Lead By Example
We are all familiar with the age-old, “Do as I say, not as I do.” We also understand that it doesn’t work.
Extensive data in numerous fields shows us that the best way to help a child develop core values is through example. In other words, don’t tell your kids not to smoke; be a non-smoking parent. Don’t scold your child when they eat an unhealthy snack; follow a healthy diet yourself. The same goes for sports development. Leading by example and displaying precisely why an active lifestyle is beneficial is an excellent way to get your kids interested in sports. One option is to participate in sports events. Alternatively, you can set aside time and teach your child how to play different sports: basketball, tennis, football, etc.
- Provide Emotional Support
Providing emotional support is crucial for all aspects of your child’s life, and things are not different when it comes to sports for kids. Being a supportive parent allows your child to open up, share worries, and celebrate wins. It brings you closer and shows them that, no matter the outcome, they can always turn to you for encouragement, security, and peace. Some parents make the mistake of evaluating their child’s worth based on their sports performance, which can build resentment. Instead of being a source of positive emotions, sports can become a tedious activity a child feels they must do to earn a parent’s love and respect.
- Give Them Practical Recommendations
Giving your child good-natured, helpful, and timely advice can be a fantastic way to foster their sports development and boost their self-esteem.
A good piece of feedback is:
- Positive
- Specific
- Actionable
Here are a few examples:
- “That was a great steal into transition you did in the second quarter.”
- “Good job bracing your body, just like your coach suggested!”
- “I really like how you found that opening and made that great pass to Mike.”
Final Words
Being a supportive parent doesn’t always have to be hard or complex. Sometimes, a show of support or a kind word can be enough for your child to feel loved and respected. Small acts of support can help your children find more enjoyment in sports, focus on personal development, and reap numerous benefits.