| Team sports are great for teaching important life skills and attitudes if the children – and their parents – take a healthy approach to the game. Here’s some pitfalls and how to avoid them. |
| Don’t force your child to play sport because you wanted to play or did not have the opportunity. Don’t force your dreams on your child. Let him decide what he wants to play. Accept his wishes unconditionally and be proud of him – after all he has had the guts to take on something new. |
| Criticising the coach makes your child doubt the coach’s ability and credibility. Rather make an appointment to see the coach without your child if you are not happy with the team’s progress. Ask the coach what he expects from the team and what his progress goals for them are. |
| Taking part is sport in not enjoyable for a child who feels constantly criticised. Accept success with failure - losing is simply the result of one game. Stop focusing on his mistakes but rather find something positive to praise. You’ll help to build up his self-esteem and character. |
| Too many extra-circular activities can leave your child feeling tired and stressed. School work and sports will suffer. Allow your child a few activity-free afternoons per week so he can rest or play. This will also help him learn that balance in life is essential. If you think your child may be over-scheduled, sit down with him and find out which activities he would like to give up. |
| Read more about the benefits of soccer, cricket, swimming and tennis. |
| Excerpt from Your Child, Winter 2006, by Gina Hartoog |
