Let Kids Be Kids – Positive Sideline Behaviour

As we approach the halfway point of the winter season, it’s important for us to reflect back on how we are enriching the participation experience for the children at our sporting clubs. Children participate for a range of reasons and sometimes those reasons don’t align with parents, club coaches or spectators, which means that sometimes our sideline behaviour can have a negative impact on the sport experience of the children.

It’s critically important that to enhance the chances of our children developing a life-long love of sport and physical activity and the subsequent improved health outcomes, that we understand and acknowledge their motivations to participate during their formative years.

Always encourage children and be positive, understand that their participation isn’t about winning, officials are often volunteers and that without opposition teams to play against there would be no game, so encourage the opposing team as well. They are all trying their best.

Please take a moment to view the video below and learn directly from the children and some Australian sporting champions on what motivates them to play and how you can positively contribute to their sport experience.

Enjoy and have fun!