Kids & Team Sports: 3 Reasons Parents Should Hold the Scholarship Thoughts & Just Have Fun by Michael Kennedy

Spending time with your young kids around the sports fields and in the backyard will contribute to a lifetime of memories. Here are a few of my many takeaways from a recent coaches’ clinic I attended where I was reminded once again, being positive is paramount to a good experience as we head into the sports seasons. Have fun!

• Did you know when asked, one of the top reasons kids have for leaving a sport(s) is that they stopped having fun? Winning or losing, having fun in and around games and practices will increase enthusiasm and boost spirit.

• Let the coaches coach. There is only one word to describe when a child is getting instructions from the bleachers and the coaches during a game – confusion. Obviously root for and encourage your child and the team, but let the coaches do their thing.

• Take a breath. After a bad game, practice, play or outcome, take a breath. And when there is a window that makes sense try to let your child initiate the conversation. Did you know when asked, one of the top things older kids say they disliked about their participation in sports was the car ride home after?

Have fun, share and enjoy these wonderful times. You can't rewind the clock.

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