As parents, we want what’s best for our children, and we also want our children to give it their best when they participate in Martial Arts and extra-curricular sports. The problem is, we sometimes get caught up in our desire to see our children perform well and we speak up at the wrong times.
How about a simple class where your child is learning a submission or a takedown?
Here’s what is potentially going on in your child’s mind:
What move is next?
Is it my left hand or my right hand?
What did my instructor just say?
What did my parent just say?
What will my classmates think if I make a mistake?
What will my parents think if I make a mistake?
How many moves do I have left?
You can imagine this a lot to think about, and when your parent is yelling at you, chances are things will start to get confusing!
- But let’s not forget that your coaching is a distraction to other people besides just your child:
It distracts the other students.
It distracts other parents.
It distracts the instructors.
So, although you have good intentions with coaching from the sidelines, there are more productive options:
Give your child tips and encouragement before class.
Remain silent unless you see your child look to you for advice or support.
Provide constructive feedback after class.
The goal should be to help foster growth and development, as well as encourage the fun out of it. After all, it’s the great memories that last a lifetime.