Every parent wants the best for their kids. It's normal to encourage and support your offspring in their activities, and try to eliminate obstacles to their achievement. Unfortunately, some parents take this too far, becoming what's known as "helicopter parents." The term refers to parents who hover around their children and swoop in at the first sign of trouble to intervene, rather than letting their children solve their own problems and learn on their own. This behavior is not only frustrating to experienced coaches who are trying to do their job, but it's also harmful to your kids. 

What Helicopter Parenting Looks Like

Helicopter parenting has become increasingly common in youth sports for a number of reasons. Getting involved with a soccer league or other sport requires a significant investment of time and requires commitment from the athlete and parents to attend practices, games, tournaments, and other activities. As such, parents want their children to have a great experience, which often translates into doing everything they can to ensure their player has a great experience and is happy. 

While their hearts may be in the right place, this desire to make their kids happy can undermine the efforts of experienced coaches. Complaining about the coach's approach to teaching the sport or how much their child gets to play, arguing with the coach or officials, or modeling poor sportsmanship in the stands are all examples of helicopter parenting that can affect your child's relationship with their coach and performance on the field. 

Why Helicopter Parenting Is Harmful

When young athletes are not given the chance to learn from an experienced coach because their parents interfere at every turn, they may struggle to reach their full potential in the sport. Eliminating obstacles also prevents kids from learning about hard work and perseverance, as well as how to deal with setbacks and failure. 

Helicopter parenting also prevents your children from learning how to take responsibility for themselves and their own actions. Intervening any time there is an issue keeps kids from ever facing consequences, which can cause issues on and off the sports field. 

How to Avoid Helicopter Parenting 

The best way to prevent helicopter parenting is to know when to step in and when to back off. It is perfectly acceptable to step in if your child is being treated unfairly or is in harm's way. It's also okay to ask questions for clarification to better understand the coach's philosophy and approach. Otherwise, though, you should allow experienced coaches to do their jobs, and be an ally to them on and off the field. It can be hard to watch your child struggle, but remember that this helps them learn and grow as an athlete and a person. 

If you're looking for a youth soccer program with experienced coaches, consider Beachside Soccer Club in Norwalk, CT. This world-class program for children ages 5 and older teaches youngsters the fundamentals of the game and helps them build character. Players of all skill levels are welcome. Learn more about the club online and call (203) 852-6969 with questions.