Mandatory Parent Education Programs Can Create Positive Youth Sport Experiences

Abstract

Youth sport leaders must not ignore the influence parents have on creating a positive developmental experience for young athletes. Therefore, expectations involving parental involvement and conduct must be addressed prior to athletes' participation. This article aims to examine the importance of creating mandatory parental training programs for youth sports. It explores research regarding what parents should learn, how to implement training programs, and how to hold parents accountable. Requiring parental training could be an important step toward changing the often negative sideline culture that has become prevalent in youth sports today.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Jennifer Christofferson

Jennifer Christofferson ([email protected]) is an instructor in the Health and Physical Education Department at Concordia College in Moorhead, MN; and

Bradford Strand

Bradford Strand is a professor in the Department of Health, Nutrition and Exercise Sciences at North Dakota State University in Fargo, ND.