Today's Tip for Families

[En español]

09-09-2024

In Sports, Offer Encouragement, Not Pressure

You know your teen has athletic talent. You want to do all you can to be encouraging. But you’re also worried about pushing too hard. What should you do?

It’s best not to get too involved with your teen’s athletic success, say experts. Students should feel they are doing the sport for themselves, not their families.

To maintain the right balance, ask yourself these questions:

• Does your teen ask for your opinion? Wait until you are asked before giving your teen advice about technique. If your teen doesn't ask, leave the coaching to the coach.
• Who takes responsibility for your teen's athletic schedule? Most athletes must juggle several practices and games a week. Those who are interested in the sport themselves take charge of at least part of this task.
• Whose needs are you fulfilling? Most teens take as much pleasure in improving their skills as they do in winning. They are also likely to want to try several sports. If you’re disappointed because your teen wants to try a different sport, remember that health and fitness are the primary benefit of most sports.

Brought to you by:

Manatee County Public Schools
Title I

[School Success Ideas for Families]

© 2024 The Parent Institute, a Division of PaperClip Media Inc. All Rights Reserved.