The Influence of Parents on Youth Sports Success

Major Dhyan Chand Singh, have you ever heard this name? Yes! The Indian field hockey player whose birth anniversary is celebrated as National Sports Day. Unlike the other important days in our calendar, this is mostly unnoticed. He was a key reason India won almost 7 Olympic medals in field hockey back then. The Olympics is going on… National Sports Day is nearing, so this calls for a blog on youth sports. If you are a sports parent, this blog will give you an insight into how your influence as a parent affects your kid's sports life.

As an Indian proud of India’s Olympic odyssey, I wish to see greater participation in the Olympics. Building such promising futures requires efforts beyond the field. India's Paris Olympics 2024 is being held and it is more than just a competition that inspires many minds to choose or pursue their passions and hobbies. 

The journey of athletes like Manu Bhaker shows us how important parental support is for children to achieve their dreams. A father's encouragement can be why a child finds their passion and works towards it. The support Manu Bhaker received took her to the heights of representing India's Paris Olympics 2024.

In India, gym classes should be given more importance. In my opinion, the attitude of Indian parents, reluctant of youth sports is what creates this issue. They want their kids to be doctors engineers, government employees and never a sports person. According to desi parents, if you are good at sports then take it as a hobby but don't make it your profession. Things are changing…and some parents want to support their kids genuinely and not burden them with expectations. Now many of you might have kids who are interested in sports and you are wondering what the right approach is to support their dreams. Here are a few tips for all parents struggling to parent their athletes. 

How to Motivate kids to play sports

Raising a young athlete is a thrilling journey filled with moments of pride, excitement, and challenges. Even though you have your own perspective on sports, if it is not the path your kid wants to choose, let them be, for it is for them to decide what they want to be. And as a parent, the only thing you should do is pave the way for them. Here's a more elaborate guide to help you navigate this exciting path:

Encourage Them and Make It Fun

Be it any sport, soccer, swimming, dancing or gymnastics, it is important to cultivate an interest in them first and the parent must do it as you are your kid's first mentor. Play the sport with them and watch them play, tell them you love to see them play. At their age, all they want is to have fun. Your enthusiasm can ignite their passion. Understand what sports they like more and you also learn it so that you can understand their perspective of the sports. Remember, parenting is not easy but to make your child a good athlete with a very positive mental being you will have to work on it. This way you can instill a lifelong love for sports in them, not just focus on winning.

Never Undermine Their Efforts

It can be difficult to raise your kid when you yourself are going through a hard time. However, you should keep in mind that all they want is mental support from you even if you can't fulfill all of their needs. Sometimes being an emotional support will help them think from your side. Your financial and time investment in your child's athletic pursuits is a way of showing them your unwavering support. Never make them feel like it’s a burden or a waste. Your belief in them and their abilities is their strongest motivator. 

Emotional Support 

You know your child better than anyone. So be their emotional support. Understand every kid has their own pace when it comes to learning and give them the time and space they need. Offer words of encouragement, and give them space to tell their thoughts and fears. Your empathy can help them build resilience and mental toughness.

Understand the Sport

It’s okay to not know all the sports but as a parent, you should have awareness of the sports your kid is playing. While you don't need to be a sports expert, a basic understanding of the game can help you communicate effectively with your child and their coaches. However, avoid imposing your dreams or perspectives on them. Their passion should guide their athletic journey.

Create a Positive Environment

A supportive home environment is essential for an athlete's growth. Avoid creating unnecessary pressure or comparing them to others. Focus on their progress, not perfection. This way you can be that positive role model for your kid’s well-being.

Paint a Realistic Picture

It is very normal for us to dream big when it comes to our child’s life but always remember these famous lines from the poet Kahlil Gibran, 

“You may strive to be like them, but seek not to make them like you.

  For life goes not backward nor tarries with yesterday.”

 Though it's natural to have expectations, avoid projecting your unfulfilled athletic aspirations onto your child. Let them set their own goals and celebrate their achievements on their terms.

Consistent Support and Interest

Showing your kids that you care about what they love is a great thing you can do. There might be times when they feel lonely or simply “not enough”. This is part of being a human and at times like these, your consistent support is what will drive their confidence. Be their support and show genuine interest in their training, matches, and challenges.

Focus on the Journey, Not Just the Results

Winning is important, but it shouldn't be the sole measure of your kid’s success.  Support them from the sidelines but never while they are playing.  Pressuring them might give you the opposite effect of your goal. Cheer them on, but let them enjoy the game. Help your child develop a growth mindset by emphasizing learning, improvement, and effort. Win or Lose, never treat your child differently based on it. Whatever the outcome, be with them your unconditional support should remain constant. Treat them equally whatever the outcome may be.

Specialization Can Wait

Youth sports are getting much attention and as parents, most of you might be in a hurry to see what that one sport your kid wants to play is. For young athletes, it's essential to explore different sports. Specializing too early can lead to burnout and physical injuries. There was this TED X Chicago talk by a doctor where he mentioned how children develop ligament issues at such a young age due to specializing in one sport more. Encourage them to try various activities to develop their overall athleticism and don't strain them from a young age. Even if they don't start at 5 or 6, they can still be pro at their chosen sport.

Embrace Mistakes and Failures

Children who are taught failures are their stepping stones to success end up becoming successful in life. Setbacks are a natural part of sports. Teach your child how to learn from mistakes, bounce back, and persevere. Celebrate their resilience and determination.

Build Communication Skills

Teach them to communicate effectively as being in sports demands them to express themselves well. Athletes have to deal with coaches, teammates, and challenges so Helping them develop strong communication skills to express their thoughts and feelings is a must.

Let Them Take Ownership

Be there for them and encourage your child to set their own goals and create a training plan. Let them decide on things that will foster a sense of ownership in them thus boosting their motivation and commitment.

Prioritize Mental Skills

Sports are as much mental as physical. Help them develop mental toughness, focus, and visualization techniques.

Learn About the Sport

Gain knowledge about their chosen sport to support them effectively. However, avoid overwhelming them with your perspectives. Be a positive role model.

Make It Fun

Keep the joy alive. Let your child's passion for the sport shine through. Did they give it their all? That’s what counts.

Handle Injuries with Care

Injuries are part of sports. Provide emotional support, help them understand the recovery process, and avoid pushing them too hard.

Avoid Overtraining

Recognize the signs of burnout and overtraining. Sometimes, taking a break is essential for physical and mental recovery. Trust the coaches because they know what they're doing.

Celebrate Their Efforts

Celebrate their effort by letting them know you appreciate their hard work. Be transparent about your feelings without being critical. A simple "I love to watch you play" can go a long way. Let them learn from mistakes as It's part of the game.

By following this guide, you can be a positive role model and create a supportive environment that empowers your child to reach their full potential as an athlete and as an individual. The most important thing is to enjoy the journey together. Let's make sports a positive experience for everyone.