Many parents enjoy coaching their children in organized sports. Some see this activity as the most positive way they can be actively involved in with their kids. While this may be the case, there are some additional considerations to keep in mind.
There are many benefits of participation in structured activities for our children. Included among these are the social skills learning that can take place, the physical exertion, the establishment of friendships, and the gratification that flows from involvement in a cause larger than the self.
An additional benefit is the opportunity for the child to learn to make his way in the world that exists beyond his family. While family provides the protective nurturing that is essential to the development of children, it is also important that kids learn to make their way in the absence of family, especially parents.
Doing so provides a child a sense of personal capability and assurance as they venture from the safety of the home into a setting that can involve some anxiety. Performing in the face of this anxiety brings a sense of mastery along with the confidence that they can repeat this type of performance in future situations where family is not present.
If a parent is involved in this activity, this sense can be diluted.
Additionally, when parents coach their children, it can produce some anxiety born of confusion. On the court or playing field, the child may be uncertain; is this my dad or my coach that I'm relating to right now? Similarly, that confusion can extend to the home; the child may think "Is it my mom or my coach that is talking to me?"
This is not to say that parents should not coach their children. It is merely to point out some potential downsides to what many parents believe is an unalloyed good thing. As you remain involved in coaching your child (or consider doing so), keep these considerations in mind.
