We have heard the term “Soccer Moms”. They have kids who play soccer. One would envision mothers anxiously running their children errands in minivans or SUVs while chatting on their cell phones, waiting to pick up their children from soccer practice. God bless them all. This term has also been extended to dads as well, who perform the same “function”. Well done!

Here are some tips for those parents whose children are involved in youth soccer:

Ensure that you child is well rested and adequately fit before bringing him/her to soccer practice or competition game. Because rest and fitness plays an important role in children involved in strenuous activities, as fatigue will increase the chance of injury on the field.

It is best that your child does not eat before a game to avoid cramps.

Ensure that your child takes in adequate fluids, as in any sports your child will loss fluids due to sweating, especially on a hot day.

Make sure your he/she gets adequate warms ups before a game.

Ensure that you as a parent observe good game conduct during a match. I sure you have seen parents screaming and shouting at their kids or the referee, screaming instructions to their kids from the benches. First off I don’t think junior can hear you and secondly its down right distracting for the children on the field.

If by any chance you child happens to be the losing team, show that you care with encouragement and a listening ear. Don’t leave it as it is, children have feelings too. Never lecture or nag at your child at how he should have won the game or compare.

If you do not know any thing about soccer, its best to do some research or reading up on the matter. It helps when he/she talk or discusses soccer with you. Its good for bonding and maybe you’ll stop argue with the referee ;)

Show genuine interest and be your child’s best supporter.

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