Parenting Tips: Supporting Your Child’s Football Dreams

If you’ve got a little kiddo who’s dreaming about becoming a professional footballer someday, how do you help them make that happen? After all, getting a child into sports provides them with a wonderful opportunity to develop valuable life skills while enhancing their physical fitness. As a parent, it’s a great idea to encourage and support this interest, from watching football matches online to purchasing AFL tickets so they can see their sports heroes play live! Here’s a short list of other things you can do to help your wee one become a champion.

Find opportunities for them to play the game

Getting your kid to have access to regular playtime might be an obvious move, but it’s absolutely crucial. Encourage them to sign up for local clubs, school teams, or even just meet up with friends at the park for some informal matches. The more time they get to spend with a ball at their feet, the more they will be able to develop their skills and understanding of the game. Never underestimate the value of unstructured play where your child can experiment with the game they love, make mistakes, and learn things at their own pace.

Be a supportive and enthusiastic spectator

Make the time to attend their games or training sessions because your presence shows them that you place value on their efforts. When you’re being a spectator, make sure you focus on your kid’s playing ability and teamwork instead of whether they win or lose the game. If you’re giving feedback, make it positive and specific, such as commenting on how they were able to accurately pass to their teammate. Do not make any overly critical remarks and avoid comparing them to other players since doing so can demotivate them.

Help them develop their football skills outside of their formal training sessions

Join them while they’re practising drills in your backyard or watch professional matches together and discuss tactics. There are also countless resources online that you can use to get guidance on specific skills. Always remember that the point of spending time together like this is to have fun and reinforce their love of the game.

Teach them the importance of sportsmanship, teamwork, and discipline

Football is a team sport where learning to communicate, collaborate, and respect both teammates and opponents is vital. Emphasise that fair play is crucial, along with following the rules and winning or losing gracefully. When they learn these values, it will not only help them on the football field but also in different aspects of life.

Balance their football ambitions with other activities and interests

Though it’s important to support their passion for the game, it’s also important to help them maintain a healthy balance with their hobbies, studies, and social life. Don’t put too much pressure on them to succeed at the sport and don’t let them make football the sole focus of their sense of self.

Start the work of supporting your child today and get them to a live match through the Queen of Tickets!