Somerville Recreation
Parent Guidelines for Youth Sports

Be There!
It's more fun for your child when you're on the sidelines and it's a great opportunity to meet your children's friends and other parents.

Responsibility can be fun!
Teach your child responsibility in the fun world of sports. Get to games and practices on time.

Encourage, don't discourage!
Cheer positively. Compliment your child and his/her teammates. Ask, "Did you have fun and try your best?" rather than "Did you win?"

Let the referees referee!
Referees help teach fair play and sportsmanship. Your reaction to their calls speak volumes to your child. Don't criticize the referees' judgment.

Lighten up!
Help relieve the pressure of competition, not increase it. Remember, children participate in organized sports for their enjoyment, not yours.

Play hard, don't lose hard!
Help your child turn his/her defeats into victories by reminding them that winning is more than points scored.