What Sports Parents Should Know About Their ‘Less Athletic’ Kids

home insemination Kit

Hey there, fellow sports parents! I’m right there in the bleachers with you, cheering for our kids and sharing the highs and lows of youth sports. We’ve experienced the thrill of victory, the agony of defeat, and everything in between—team jerseys, concession stand hustle, and the all-important post-game snacks. There’s nothing quite like the sound of a bat cracking or a ball swooshing through the net, especially when it’s your kid making that magic happen!

But let’s talk about a different side of the coin: the kids who aren’t necessarily the stars of the show. I’m talking about those who might struggle a bit more on the field. I have one of those kids—my older son, Jamie, who is a tad less coordinated than his younger brother. It’s a tough spot for him, and I’ve seen firsthand how it can lead to frustration, not just for him, but for coaches, teammates, and even parents in the stands.

During one of Jamie’s soccer games, I witnessed an unforgettable moment. He was in the right position, the ball came to him, and he took a shot—his heart was in it! But instead of a triumphant kick, he missed entirely and ended up flat on his back. The crowd let out a collective groan, and I felt my heart sink for him. But there he was, laughing off the embarrassment and jumping right back into the game. That spirit, that resilience? To me, that’s far more admirable than any score or game-winning goal.

It’s easy to forget that youth sports should be about building confidence, teamwork, and character, not just winning trophies. As parents, we shouldn’t contribute to a culture that tears down our kids’ self-esteem. Sure, you might think it’s not your job to lift up my child, but it certainly isn’t your place to tear him down either.

Some might argue that today’s kids are overly entitled, expecting rewards just for showing up. But I’d argue that entitlement stems from parents who micromanage every aspect of their kids’ lives, ensuring they never face adversity. It’s essential for kids to learn how to handle disappointment and to understand that not every game will go their way.

So, fellow parents, let’s make a pact. Let’s allow coaches and refs to do their jobs while we support our kids and their teammates, no matter their performance. Let’s teach them to get back up after a fall and to help others do the same. After all, isn’t that what teamwork is all about?

For more parenting insights, check out this fantastic resource on IVF. And if you’re looking into home insemination options, consider visiting Make A Mom for some great advice. You can also find more tips in another post on Home Insemination Kit.

In summary, let’s foster an environment where our kids can learn valuable life lessons through sports, regardless of their skill level. Let’s be supportive, focus on character-building, and remember that every child deserves a chance to shine, even if they aren’t the star player.