How to Deal With Critical Parents When Coaching

Having to deal with critical parents is one of the biggest problems with coaching. Some parents overestimate their child's athletic abilities, and sometimes those parents let their frustrations get the best of them and become critical of the coaches, umpires or other players. Follow a few guidelines to deal with critical parents when coaching.

Instructions

1. Remind the critical parents that their child is learning a lot more than just the sport. They are learning about teamwork and friendships.

2. Tell the parents that if they have a problem with their child, the umpire or the way you are coaching to please talk about it in private and not during the game or in front of other parents and children. It is embarrassing to everyone involved but most importantly, to the children.

3. Explain to the parents when they are being critical that every child is an important part of the team regardless of playing ability. The team needs support from the parents, not criticism.

4. Host a team meeting with the parents if you're coaching a team. Explain to them what you will and will not accept and that you expect your rules to be followed.

5. Address issues with critical parents when you are calm. You don't want your emotions getting out of control, especially in front of your players. Walk away and address it later.

Tips & Warnings

• Never yell at the parents or make threats. Parents are the most important people in a child's life and it can really scar the child.