10 Things Kids Say They Don't Want Their Parents to Do
1. I'm trying to concentrate on what the coach says and working on what I've been practicing. It's easier for me to do my best if you save instructions and reminders for practice or just before the game.
2. Don't put down the officials.
This embarrasses me and I sometimes wonder whether the official is going to be tougher on me because my parents yell.
3. Don't yell at me in public
It will just make things worse because I'll be upset, embarrassed, or worried that you're going to yell at me the next time I do something "wrong."
4. Don't yell at the coach
When you yell about who gets to play what position, it just stirs things up and takes away from the fun.
5. Don't put down my teammates
Don't make put-down remarks about any of my teammates who make mistakes. It takes away from our team spirit.
6. Don't put down the other team
When you do this you're not giving us a very good example of sportsmanship so we get mixed messages about being "good sports."
7. Don't lose your cool
I love to see you excited about the game, but there's no reason to get so upset that you lose your temper! It's our game and all the attention is supposed to be on us.
8. Please don't lecture me about mistakes after the game
Those rides home in the car after the game are not a good time for lectures about how I messed up -- I already feel bad enough about my mistakes. Please stay calm, and don't forget to mention the things I did well during the game!
9. Don't forget how to laugh and have fun
Sometimes it's hard for me to relax and have fun during the game when I look over and see you so tense and worried.
10. Don't forget that it's just a game
Odds are, I'm not going to make a career out of playing sports. I know I may get upset if we lose, but I also know that I’m usually feeling better after we go get a pizza. I need to be reminded sometimes that it’s just a game.
