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 • Let kids be kids. Fun should be paramount. • Be supportive. The most important thing a parent can say to their child is "I love to watch you play." • Be disciplined. Manage your emotions and set a good example that teaches your child to do the same. • Be positive, and when adversity comes, be constructive not destructive. • Praise your child's effort more often than their performance. Studies show it helps them better develop the confidence to meet new challenges and overcome obstacles. • Be proactive. Getting involved as a volunteer, coach or official in your association can give you an even greater influence on your child's hockey experience. • Your child's coach is likely a volunteer, and often also a parent, donating their time to help your child. Communication is important and should be done constructively through appropriate channels. • Don't bully or harass. USA Hockey promotes creating a safe environment for all. • Kids learn best by doing. • Focus on the process, not the outcome, and teach your child to do the same. • Keep hockey in perspective. Maintain a healthy balance of hockey and non-hockey activities. Encourage your child to be well-rounded. • Enjoy the youth hockey experience with your child. Life moves fast and time passes quickly. Soon your child will be grown and you'll wish you could return to these days, if just for a moment. So savor these seasons, don't rush them. Make the experience one that you'll remember fondly together years from now. WHAT TO EXPECT AS A Y our child's hockey experience will be influenced by many factors, but nothing will influence that experience more than you. As a parent, you are the most influential figure in your child's development, both as a hockey player and as a person. Embrace that opportunity. As a parent, YOU ARE THE MOST INFLUENTIAL FIGURE IN YOUR CHILD'S DEVELOPMENT R E M E M B E R : Hockey Parent U S A H O C K E Y PA R E N T H A N D B O O K 5

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