How To Be Your Teen's Biggest Fan

Here's How:

1. At home, you can be sure that his/her practice clothes and uniforms are cleaned and ready for use when he/she needs them. Offer a healthy hearty lunch and save dinner for him/her.

2. Try not to look stressed or complain when you are driving him/her back and forth to practice. Try not to over schedule yourself so you will not be running late. Tip: Schedule an errand right after you drop off your teen or right before you pick him/her up. This will make you feel like you’ve accomplished something and put in you a better mood.

3. Place all of his/her practice and game times on the family calendar. This is a revered spot in the household and will not only make your teen feel organized, but it will give him/her a sense of pride. Like when you used to put his/her artwork on the refrigerator.

4. Be sure that you or someone can go to all of the games or at least all of the home games.

5. While you should sit with the parents of other players to make a larger cheering section for your teen’s team, you should pay attention to the game and what your teen is doing. You want to be able to say “yes” when your teen asks you if you saw a certain play.

6. Don’t be afraid to show your team spirit. Get excited, cheer loudly and make banners – siblings love holding up banners!

7. After the game, no matter how your teenager or his/her team did, pat him/her on the back. Talk about the game, but do most of the listening. You can offer suggestions at another time. Win or lose, it’s important for his/her biggest fan(s) just to be there.

Tips:

1. Be careful how much 'encouragement' and 'suggestions' you give your teen. You do not want to be the person who pushes too hard. He/She has a coach for that.

2. How many times a week do you do something together as a family?(include dinner, going out together, family events, etc.)
   • over 10 times per week
   • 5 to 10 times per week
   • 3 to 5 times per week
   • under 3 times per week

   See the poll results.

3. Do you need to learn more about the sport your teen is playing? Check out About.com's Sports Hub.