There is nothing worse than watching a kids’ football match only for it to be overshadowed by a shouting parent who doesn’t like the way the game is going.

There is nothing worse than watching a kids’ football match only for it to be overshadowed by a shouting parent who doesn’t like the way the game is going.

 

For one, it’s not going to help the child, who will eventually stop playing due to sheer embarrassment or request that the particular parent doesn’t attend matches anymore.
And two, loudly criticising someone is not going to help them score a goal - it will have the opposite effect, in fact. 

 
In order to ensure that everyone enjoys the game and that you set a good example, there are a few things you need to bear in mind every time you attend a match – no matter what sport it is.
1. Keep your opinion to yourself – unless you are the actual coach you don’t need to tell your little one what position they need to be in or where they should be on the field. Or any player for that matter.
2. Stay on the sidelines – don’t be that parent who is nearly standing on the half-way line trying to offer their unwanted advice.

 
3. Don’t shout at the ref – you’re just setting a bad example for your kids if you do. Be a good example and teach them to respect the ref.

 
4. Praise them - Do offer lots of praise and congratulations for playing well and for taking part, especially if they lose.

 
5. Don’t give out to the coach if things don’t go your way – unless you’re going to offer up your time to help out at training sessions, don't criticise the coach. 
Always remember that, at the end of the day, they are only children, and it is more important to encourage them to play than it is for them to win. 
As parents, we all just want our kids to do well in life and be the best that they can be. And, yes, this does mean watching what you say and do during the game.
Written by Mary Byrne, Content Executive at Family Friendly HQ. Follow her on Twitter: @marybyrne321

 

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