Guide to Back to School Athletics

Back to school is a time to prepare for your child's school athletic events. From football, basketball, soccer, to track and field there so many sports to choose from. Once you know exactly what teams your child has qualified for plan to help them with the details. Below are some tips to help your maximize your time so that you can support your child's athletic aspirations.

Scheduling

Most athletic department schedule for team training at different times throughout the school year. Find out if there is a class scheduled for this specifically. There may be practices before or after school. Get the complete list of game days. There should be a schedule available from the school with this information. Highlight all away games, or days that require extra planning or travel.

Dues

See what dues are expected for participation. There may be a fund raiser where your child is expected to raise a certain dollar amount, or pay that amount. Have money set aside for each game. For example if there is a football game every Friday night in the fall, give your child extra allowance for each game. Their may be fund raisers that are in place, to partially pay for these meals. Find out from the source, never take your child's word for it. You never want for your child to be at an away game and not have enough cash on hand for meals.

Equipment

Aim to have the best safety equipment that you can afford. A set fee may be charged for basic standard equipment. Check with the coach or other parents if you are unclear about what else you can buy to help with safety. Remind your child to wear the equipment at all times they are practicing or playing in a game.

Be there

Plan to be there for all games. There is nothing more sad, than students who study hard and put in all of their training and no family members or friends attend their games. If you are too busy with working, or have other responsibilities, reach out to loved ones. Invite grandparents, aunts, uncle's, cousins, neighbors, and family friends to the games. On the nights that you are able to make it out, be excited. Bring a camera, bring your sign, show your support. Let your child know that you are there to support them.

Celebrate the completion of a season, as a growing step in their life. Have a family dinner, to go over the high points of the season. Add some new pictures to the family photo album and place in nice frames throughout the house. Celebrate their participation and progress in this team sport. Encourage them to try other sports, and other activities that builds self confidence.