|
 |
 Parental
attitude is all about understanding the aptitude of your child
to a given task. In the context of sports it is acknowledged
that aptitude is determined by the 5-S’s. Strength, Stamina,
Speed, Suppleness and Skill. Every child has these qualities in
varying degrees, which explains why some children are more adept
at sport than others. It even explains why some children are
more suited to certain a sport than other sports. But even a
child with lesser physical skills can attain mastery over a
period of time. Add another quality, mental toughness and the
total picture of an athlete is complete.
When you are introducing your child
to a sport it is important to know that your attitudes play a
key role in the development of your child. |
| |
|
|
|
The biggest mistake most parents make is to compare their
children often in situations where no comparison exists. Over a
period of time constant comparisons become intimidating to your
child. Focus rather on the positive aspects of your child and
encourage them to try out new skills. Set realistic goals and
teach them to enjoy the process of working towards these goals |
| |
|
|
|
 As
a parent always encourage your child to compete fairly and give
100% without worrying or focusing on the outcome. Never equate
winning with success and losing with failure. Make sure that
your child knows that you love him regardless of winning or
losing. Treat both winning and losing with equanimity and focus
solely on the performance. Please remember that performing on a
tennis court is akin to performing on stage or in front of a
camera and even the most experienced artistes forget their lines
sometimes. Aberrations therefore should be expected and should
be excused
|
| |
|
|
|
Positive comments and statements go a long way in bettering your
child’s prospects. Instead of “I’ll pull you out of tennis if
you do not do better... “ say “ Do better and I’ll get you a new
pair of shoes..”. Both during practice and competition avoid
yelling criticisms and concentrate on remaining positive and
encouraging and focus on your own body language instead |
| |
|
|
|
 It is also
important, that you get to know the Coach, to
ensure that the philosophy, attitudes and ethics
practiced by the Coach and the knowledge base he
has, coincide with what you want your child to
learn and accomplish. Once you establish the
credentials of the Coach keep in mind that the
Coach does know the job better than you and has a
development schedule charted out for your kid. If
at a point of time, you decide to change coaches,
ensure that your relationship with the previous
coach has been settled. Due to conflicting views
and styles of coaching it is a bad idea to send
your child to different coaches at the same point
of time.
|
| |
|
|
|
If you
have the time and the energy, participate in the
sport with your child. It adds a different
perspective to your child’s participation in the
sport. Last but not the least; teach them to HAVE
FUN in practice and
competition. |
| |
Cheers and Good
luck!
|
