It's the holiday season and little girls and boys all over Canada are unwrapping their first pair of skates - or skis - or snowboard. Most kids enjoy sports recreationally - but if you can't coax your little one off the rink for hours on end, you may have a budding athlete on your hands!
We talked to former Olympian and sports psychologist Penny Werthner to get her thoughts on the relationship between parents and athletes; and what parents can do to help their children succeed.
Healthy training environment
While it works for the Williams sisters, not every child can or would want to have their parent as their coach! It might be hard for parents to give up the reins to another person, but having the right coach is a huge factor in an athlete's success.
As a parent, you'll want to watch the interaction between your child and her coach very carefully. Make sure that the interaction is positive and that the coach creates an healthy environment for your child to flourish.
If and when you see that your child is improving and you have confidence in their coach, you might want to move into the background, depending on what your child needs.
It's OK to ask your kids what they want
Everyone has a different relationship with their parents. Some kids love having their folks in the stands, cheering them on - for others, having their parents attend their sporting events may trigger stress and keep them from performing their best.
So ask your kids what they would prefer. Let them know that you're there for them either way. And if they ask you not to come, don't take it personally - it doesn't mean they don't love you or that you're banned for life. Trust that they're finding their way as an athlete and are figuring out how to improve their focus.
Great expectations
Supporting an elite athlete - both financially and emotionally - is a big commitment for the whole family. Whether you're in the stands for Peewee hockey or you're cheering your child on at the Olympic Games, your relationship with them - and their sport - is always evolving.
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