Talking to your child's coach is almost always a stressful experience, regardless of the issue. As with any meeting, it's good to do your homework and make sure you have considered other alternatives. You might just find that talking to the coach isn't a good idea after all.
- Regardless
of the issue you may have with your child's coach, talk to your
child first to find out what he is feeling and thinking before you
talk to the coach. His feelings may be very different than yours and
they deserve your respect.
- Encourage
your child to talk to the coach himself. If you jump in every time
your child has a problem, your child will soon get the message that she
isn't capable of taking care of herself and will look to you to solve
other problems she may be having in her life. For instance, if he is not
getting as much playing time as he thinks he
deserves, he should ask, "Coach, what do I need to work on so that I
can earn more playing time?"
- Don't
speak up until you see a pattern and after you have gathered all the
facts with an open mind. Check with the assistant coaches and other
parents. Be patient. Give the coach the chance to get to know your child
before you begin complaining.
- Even if
your child's feelings mirror your own, don't conclude that you have
to talk to the coach. Consider the effect your talking to the coach may
have on your child's relationships with his teammates and the coach.
Sometimes, it may be better to keep quiet until you have given the
matter more thought and, perhaps, talked to other parents to see if they
have concerns similar to yours. If so, you may be better off going
to the coach as a group.
Most recently revised December 20, 2012
Teaser title:
Talking to A Coach: Do Your Homework, Consider Alternatives
Teaser text:
Talking to your child's coach is almost always a stressful experience, regardless of the issue. As with any meeting, it's good to do your homework and make sure you have considered alternatives. You might just find that talking to the
coach isn't a good idea after all.