Tips for New Soccer Parents
It seems so simple at first – your child signs up for soccer. But any long-time soccer parent will tell you that things aren’t quite that simple. There’s a lot to learn in this crazy soccer-parent thing. That’s why we’ve put together some awesome, expert advice to help you navigate your role as a soccer parent. Here are 10 tips from veteran soccer parents that will help you out along the way.
- Buy extra socks and jerseys if your child is practising more than once a week. The investment is well worth it so that you’re not chasing laundry constantly.
- Write your child’s name on their ball – even if it’s a different pattern than the balls the rest of the kids have. This way it won’t ever get mixed up.
- WATER, water, water. Make sure your child is drinking plenty before, during, and after practice. This cannot be overstated and is essential for their long-term health.
- Don’t forget the healthy snacks! These are important for helping your child to keep that energy up.
- Shin guards are critically important. That little bone may not seem so sensitive, but one stray kick with cleats could be incredibly painful.
- Make game days special – plan your child’s favourite foods for dinner or take them out for a treat. Win or lose, they worked hard.
- ALWAYS have an umbrella with you at practice or during games. You never know when a shower might start!
- Pick up some thermal shirts and pants for your child to wear during the colder parts of the year, especially if there are any early morning practices on the schedule.
- Talk to other parents who’ve been there on your child’s team. They can give you advice and let you know what to expect.
- Take a deep breath and grow your patience. Soccer is a demanding sport for kids, and they need you! In the end, it will be well worth your time and effort.
These tips are of course just the tip of the iceberg, but hopefully they’ll help you to get started with soccer in a positive way!
Photo credit: USAG-Humphreys via Foter.com / CC BY
