Things You'll Need:
- Time to spend with your child
- Knowledge of your child's interest and abilities
- Ability to judge the values of the prospective coach
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Step 1
In order to place your child in a situation in which they will receive positive lessons, you must be sure they are involved in something they desire to do. Don't put them in a sport simply because the neighbor is or because you desire them to play that sport. They will have a much more positive experience if it is "fun" as well as challenging.
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Step 2
The most important aspect when involved in sport is the coach. He or she is the most influential person on the team whether or not they try to be. What they allow and what they enforce sets the stage for everything that happens. If the coach allows players to question officials or berate teammates or opponents, then players learn to do so with no regard for consequences. Therefore, get to know your child's coach as much as you can. Ask pointed questions about their philosophy and how they intend to stick to that philosophy.
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Step 3
Once you are comfortable with the coach, be sure to reinforce the coach's decisions or lessons. Nothing will detract from the experience more than having your athlete see and hear you second guessing the person they are supposed to be respecting and following: the coach. Keep in mind the fact the you are never going to agree with everything the coach does so when he sits your athlete, get over it! Talk to the coach in private if you must but don't let your athlete see you questioning the coach. If he does, you might as well pull him off the team right away because the positive lessons are not going to be learned and you ruined it!
