Should I Watch My Child’s Soccer Practice?

Parents often wonder whether they should attend their child’s soccer practice or not.

I have to admit, I watch most of my son’s practices. Or, at least I did until I really thought about it.

While some parents believe that watching their child’s practice can help them improve their performance, others think that it can be distracting and counterproductive.

I can see both sides so I’m going to lay out my thoughts on the pros and cons. From here, you can decide what you’ll do moving forward this season.

Should I Watch Practices? It Depends.

 

The truth is, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as it depends on the child’s personality, the coach’s philosophy, and the parent’s role in their child’s sports endeavor.

On one hand, watching a child’s soccer practice can be beneficial for both the parent and the child. It allows parents to see how their child is progressing, what skills they need to work on, and how they interact with their teammates and coach.

It also gives parents the opportunity to bond with their young player and show support for their passion.

Additionally, some coaches welcome parents to watch practices, as they believe that it can create a positive and inclusive environment for everyone involved.

On the other hand, there are some downsides to watching a child’s soccer practice.

For example, parents may feel the urge to interfere with the coach’s methods or give unsolicited advice to their child without letting them figure it out on their own. This can create tension and confusion for the child, who may not know whose instructions to follow.

Moreover, parents who watch practices may feel the need to compare their child’s performance to that of other children, which can lead to unnecessary pressure and anxiety for both the parent and the child.

Benefits of Watching Soccer Practice

Improves Parent-Child Relationship

Watching your child’s soccer practice can be a great bonding experience for both parent and child.

It shows your child that you are interested in their activities and it gives you the opportunity to spend quality time together.

This can help strengthen the parent-child relationship and build a deeper connection.

Additionally, it can help parents better understand their child’s interests and passions, which can lead to more meaningful conversations and interactions.

Better Understanding of the Game

Watching your child’s soccer practice can also help parents gain a better understanding of the game of soccer.

By observing the drills and exercises that the coach leads, parents can learn more about the sport and its rules.

This can be especially helpful for parents who are new to soccer or who have never played the sport themselves. A better understanding of the game can also help parents better support their child during games and offer helpful feedback.

Opportunity to Observe Your Child’s Progress

Watching your child’s soccer practice can give parents the opportunity to observe their child’s progress and development.

By watching their child perform different drills and exercises, parents can see firsthand how their child is improving and developing new skills. This can be a great source of pride and motivation for both parent and child.

Additionally, it can help parents identify areas where their child may need extra support or practice, which can be addressed with the coach or through additional training. Be cautious though, this is a sensitive area because the coach is there to develop the player and it takes time. You may be offending the coach unintentionally.

Reasons for Not Watching Soccer Practice

Creates Pressure on the Child

When parents watch their child’s soccer practice, it can create unnecessary pressure on the child to perform well.

This can sometimes lead to performance anxiety and stress, which can negatively impact their performance. The child may feel like they need to impress their parents, which can take away from the joy of playing the game.

Additionally, when parents watch their child’s practice, they may be tempted to give their child feedback or criticism. This can further increase the pressure on the child and make them feel like they are constantly being evaluated by their parents.

The player is there to learn and develop, not to score more goals during practice sessions. As parents, we need to trust the process.

Distraction for the Coach and Players

When parents watch their child’s soccer practice, they can be a distraction for both the coach and the players. The coach may feel like they are being watched and evaluated by the parents, which can make them feel self-conscious and affect their coaching performance.

Similarly, the players may feel like they are being watched and evaluated, which can create unnecessary pressure. They may also be distracted by their parents’ presence and not be able to fully focus on the practice.

In each case, the player and coach may hold back from what they really want to do.

Lack of Trust in the Coach

When parents watch their child’s soccer practice, it can signal a lack of trust in the coach.

Trusting the coach is an important part of the player-coach relationship, and when parents watch practices, it can send the message that they do not trust the coach’s abilities.

Additionally, when parents watch practices, they may be tempted to interfere with the coach’s decisions or strategies. This can undermine the coach’s authority and create confusion for the players.

When to Watch Your Kid’s Soccer Practice

If you decide to watch practices, here are some times it may be more appropriate.

At the Beginning of the Season

Depending on the age of the child, it may be important to attend their child’s first few soccer practices of the season.

This is a great opportunity to meet the coach and other parents, as well as get a sense of what the team’s goals and expectations are for the season.

Watching the first few practices can also give parents an idea of their child’s skill level and how they can best support their child’s development throughout the season.

In-Season Games and Friendlies

While it’s not necessary for parents to attend every single soccer practice, it’s important to attend as many games as possible…this includes friendlies (scrimmages).

Attending these games shows support for the child and the team, and can be a great bonding experience for the family.

Besides all of this, it is fun to watch your child develop their game and see the smile as they run up and down the field.

During Special Occasions

There may be special occasions throughout the soccer season when it’s important for parents to attend practices.

For example, if the team is having a fundraiser or community service event, it can be a great opportunity for parents to get involved and show support for the team.

Additionally, if the coach invites parents to attend a special practice, such as an end-of-season scrimmage between players and parents. This is when parents can showcase their skills 😉

Conclusion

After considering the various factors involved, it is ultimately up to each parent to decide whether or not to watch their child’s soccer practice.

While some parents may find it beneficial to observe their child’s progress and offer support, others may prefer to give their child space and allow them to focus on their own development.

What made me decide to not watch my son practice anymore? To give him the freedom to play with zero added pressure and distractions. Not that I gave him negative feedback but I think there’s always an added element when Mom, Dad, or guardian watches practice.

I have to say though…I do enjoy watching him play so it hasn’t been easy!