We all love the thrill of a hockey game. As children our drive to play a game such as hockey is derived from the desire to do something that is fun. When we get older however, we still consider hockey fun, but another dimension is added which takes our passion for the game to another level; competitiveness. As a hockey parent, you want your kids to have fun, but some parents drive their kids to win or to be the best which greatly diminishes the fun factor. We know that the game is played for fun, and we know that competitively we want to win, but there has to be a balance so that children can grow competitively and still enjoy the game. This article describes ways parents can achieve this. 1.Always be there Starting at a young age, a child is influenced by many factors, but the thing that influences them the most is the opinion of the parents. If you are not there every time to watch, cheer, and offer advice to your little hockey player, then someone else might steer him/her in the wrong direction. Do your best to be there for your children and protect them from the negative influences around them that take away from the fun. 2.Its just a game Children are there to play. The keyword here is â€playâ€. In order to grow a healthy competitiveness, children need to understand that no matter what happens in a game, it is just that. We’re not always on our game, even as adults. Throwing negative criticism at your child based on performance in a game will all but eliminate any fun he/she feels when playing. This adds pressure on a child to perform that should not be necessary. Remember, it’s just a game. 3.Always be positive Have you ever worked hard on something and are happy what you have accomplished only to have someone criticize and belittle what you have done? It doesn’t feel good does it? If your child has a good time playing hockey and is met with negative and detrimental comments afterwards, how do you think that will make him/her feel? Receiving healthy, positive and constructive feedback on performance is important for you and your children. In order for your children to grow, positive reinforcement is needed in all aspects. 4.Winning isn’t everything Sure, it’s the finals of the big hockey tournament and your child coughed up the puck to the other team who went and scored the game winner. We’ve all been a part of a situation like that and it does not feel good no matter what age you are. Remember, the most important thing for your child is to have fun. Winning is not everything and you need to ensure that your child knows this and can accept the loss and look forward to the next time he/she gets a chance to win. Don’t let a situation like this define how your children feel about playing their favourite game. Be positive and encouraging. Hockey is a game your children should have fun with. They should enjoy being active and spending time with their friends. Remember that the fun your children have will always be remembered and you should take the opportunity to share this with them. Don’t lose site on the happiness the game brings and be there every day to help cheer them on. It will help them grow a healthy competitiveness with age. It will also mean the world to them.
Please Rate this Article 5 out of 54 out of 53 out of 52 out of 51 out of 5
Not yet Rated
