Responsible Sports Parenting

Liberty Mutual has recently put together a Responsible Sports program, which provides resources for parents and coaches to help young athletes to reap the full benefits of playing sports. My son is still little, but I can envision him take part in such team sports as basketball, baseball or soccer when he is old enough.

Team sports can be beneficial to children's development both physically and psychologically. When the time is right, I'll definitely encourage my son to play on a school team. It'll be a great way to help him become more cooperative, confident, persevere and productive. As a parent, I'm obligated to reinforce the positive aspects of youth sports and help my child apply life lessons from sports on and off the field. I'll tell him what sportsmanship means and that cooperation and team work is valued more than winning the game. I'll be happy to host a house party to treat his fellow players. I'll also encourage him to be a leading member on the team. Even when he doesn't play well, I'll assure him that he has nothing to regret if he has done his best.

All my attempts to be a responsible sports parent are hypothetical at this stage. I'm sure some of you are experienced in parenting a young athlete. I'd love to hear your tips for helping your kid get the most out of playing sports.

If fact, if you share your tips in a blog post by July 7th, you could win an American Express gift card. See details here.