Support your child

There are many benefits that are derived from playing youth hockey. Boys learn good sportsmanship and self-discipline. They learn to work together, how to sacrifice for the team, how to enjoy winning and how to handle defeat. In the process, they also learn important lessons about physical fitness as personal health.

The degree to which your child benefits from his youth hockey experience is as much your responsibility as it is theirs. I order for your child to get the most out of a youth hockey program, it is important to show support and offer encouragement while maintaining a genuine interest in the team.

Always Be Positive

Parents serve as role models to their children, who often look to adults for advice, direction and approval. Never lose sight of the fact that you are a role model, and strive to be a positive role model.  As a parent, one of the most important things you can do is show good sportsmanship at all times to coaches, referees, opponents and teammates.

Remember that your children are PLAYING hockey. It is important to allow them to establish their own goals and play the game for themselves. Be careful not to impose your own standard or objectives.

Let the Coach Coach

The most important aspect of your child’s youth hockey experience is for them to have fun while developing physical and emotional skills that will serve them in life. A healthy, risk-free environment that emphasizes the importance of fair play, sportsmanship, discipline and, most importantly, fun will be invaluable for your child as he continues to develop a positive self image.

Positive Reinforcement

The best way to help children achieve goals and reduce their natural fear of failure is through positive reinforcement. After all, no one likes to make mistakes. If your child does make a mistake – and they will (remember, they’re just kids) – keep in mind that mistakes a an important part of the overall learning process. Strive to be supportive and point out the things they do well. Make your child feel like a winner.

• Do not force your children to participate in sports, but support their desire to play their chosen sport. Children are involved in organized sports for their enjoyment. Make it fun.
• Encourage your child to play by the rules. Remember, children learn best by example, so applaud the good plays of both teams.
• Do not embarrass your child by yelling at players, coaches or officials. By showing a positive attitude toward the game and its participants your child will benefit.
• Emphasize skill development and practices and how they benefit your young athlete.
• Know and study the rules of the game, and support the officials on and off the ice. This approach will help in the development and support of the game. Any criticism of the officials only hurts the game.
• Applaud a good effort in victory and defeat and enforce the positive points of the game. Never yell or physically abuse your child after a game or practice – t is destructive. Work toward removing the physical and verbal abuse in youth sports.
• Recognize the importance of volunteer coaches. They are very important in the development of your child and the sport. Communicate with them and support them.
• If you enjoy the game, learn all you can about the game and volunteer!.

(reprinted from Parents Code Of Conduct -USA Hockey )