A three-part guide to helping your child learn from the game.

As the parent of a student athlete, one of your key roles is helping him or her apply the lessons learned in sports to situations off the field. Participation in team sports can help kids develop the character and skills they need to go on to be leaders, overcome adversity, and work well in team situations.

First, make sure you’re on the same page. You may have different reasons for wanting your kids to plays sports than they do. Once you and your child determine why participation is important to both of you, you can establish common ground for conversations about how to meet your goals.

The Positive Coaching Alliance has established a three-part guideline parents can use to talk with their kids. The principles are the same as those used by responsible coaches: The Mastery Approach, Filling Emotional Tanks, and Honoring the Game. When you incorporate these principles into Responsible Sports Parenting, you’re reinforcing the messages your children receive from their Responsible Coaches. 

To learn more about the three-part guide, visit ResponsibleSports.com.