A 1997 fact sheet entitled "Children & Sports" the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry recommends that, to help a child get the most out of sports, you "need to be actively involved. This includes:

• providing emotional support and positive feedback

• attending some games and talking about them afterward

• having realistic expectations for your child

• learning the sport and supporting your child's involvement

• helping your child talk with you about their experiences with the coach and other team members

• helping your child handle disappointments and losing, and

• modeling respectful spectator behavior.

The Academy concludes that, "being proud of accomplishments, sharing in wins and defeats, and talking to them about what has happened helps them develop skills and capacities for success in life. The lessons learned during children's sports will shape values and behaviors for adult life."

Taken from Facts for Families 1997 American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. A complete set of over 60 Facts sheets covering issues facing children and adolescents is available for $18.00 ($15.00 plus $3.00 shipping and handling). Please make checks payable to: AACAP, and send requests to Public Information, P.O. Box 96106, Washington, D.C. 20090-6106. For the complete text of the Fact Sheet, click here.

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