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 Your Hockey Parent Playbook I LOVE TO WATCH YOU PLAY! U S A H O C K E Y PA R E N T H A N D B O O K A s a parent, you are the most influential figure in your child's hockey experience. Embrace that role and use USA Hockey's tips below to get the most out of you and your child's hockey journey. • Let kids be kids. Fun comes first. • Be supportive. The most powerful words a young athlete can hear are "I love to watch you play." • Lead by example. Manage your emotions and model good sportsmanship for your child. • Be positive, and when adversity comes, be constructive not destructive. • Celebrate effort, not just results. Studies show praising your child's effort more often than their performance helps them develop confidence to overcome new challenges. • 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 every moment. Life moves fast and time passes quickly. Soon, your child will be an adult and you'll wish you could return to these days. Savor these seasons, don't rush them. Make this a memorable experience for you and your child for years to come. REMEMBER:

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