USA Hockey

U S A H O C K E Y PA R E N T H A N D B O O K 5 bove all, remember that hockey is a game, meant to be fun, including at the highest levels. Keep hockey in perspective and help your children do the same. Often the score isn't as important to them as simply gaining the experience of playing and making memories with teammates. Savor every opportunity to watch your child on the ice. The hockey experience can be a source of great memories and lessons that last a lifetime. Traveling that road together can strengthen family ties. Here are some ideas for making the experience great: • Create a scrapbook for your child with photos, news clippings, website postings and tournament programs. Have each teammate sign it. • Encourage your child to write a journal about his or her hockey experience. • Turn road trips into true family vacations; see the sights and explore the local culture. Take lots of pictures. • Take the lead in coordinating public service opportunities for the team, such as hosting a food or toy drive. • Join or create a hockey parent social club for your child's team; use social media to keep the conversations and friendships flowing. Getting Involved Joining your local hockey association as a volunteer committee member, a coach or a helper of any sort can be a rewarding experience. It also strengthens your association. Everyone has different strengths and skills that they can bring to a local hockey association, and every contribution helps, since associations are almost entirely powered by the extraordinary efforts of volunteers. Even parents who never played hockey can make huge contributions as volunteers, so don't be reluctant. There's strength in numbers. Ask your local association about volunteer opportunities today. And if you have ideas for new ways you could help your association, don't hesitate. Jump in and join the team! H O C K E Y PA R E N T S EXPERIENCE EXPERIENCE Enjoying the A AND GET INVOLVED TODAY! ENJOY ENJOY "PLAY IS OFTEN TALKED ABOUT AS IF IT WERE A RELIEF FROM SERIOUS LEARNING. BUT FOR CHILDREN, PLAY IS SERIOUS LEARNING. PLAY IS REALLY THE WORK OF CHILDHOOD." – F R E D ( M I ST E R ) R O G E RS

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