Parent's Role

Four-time Olympic medalist Angela Ruggiero says she owes everything to her parents, whose support, not just in making sure she got all the equipment she needed and to practice but ate the right kind of food, was a key to her athletic success.

Four-time Olympic medalist Angela Ruggiero attributes her athletic success in part to the ability to overcome obstacles, meet challenges, and make sacrifices.

One way parents and coaches can help a child realize their full athletic potential, says four-time Olympic medalist Angela Ruggiero, is to explain what they may be able to achieve by setting goals and working hard.

Involve children in activities they can enjoy with the family and as adults, such as kayaking, canoeing, or bicycling, says MomsTeam's Brooke de Lench.

The last thing a child needs to hear on the sports sideline is a parent giving coaching pointers or putting pressure on them to perform. What they want most is unconditional support and encouragement.