The Parent Pledge
When you register your child, you’ll be asked to agree to these six commitments about sideline behavior.
[IMAGE: Parents watching from sideline]
The Kids Zone Parent Pledge
1. Be On Time
I will bring my child to practices and games on time so they can warm up and prepare with their team.
2. Keep Perspective
I understand that children play soccer for fun, friendship, and to learn new skills — not primarily to win or to entertain me.
3. Redefine Success
I will measure my child’s success by their effort and improvement, not by comparing them to other players or focusing on the score.
4. Model Sportsmanship
I will show respect for coaches, referees, opponents, and other parents at all times — even when I disagree with a call.
5. Be a Silent Supporter
During games, I will cheer encouragement rather than shout instructions. Coaching from the sidelines is confusing for children.
6. Protect the Car Ride Home
I will not criticize my child’s play, their teammates, their coach, or the referees on the way home. If my child wants to talk about the game, I will focus on what they enjoyed.
What “Silent Supporter” Means
Helpful Sideline Comments
- “Great effort”
- “Nice pass”
- “Way to hustle”
- General cheering and applause
Comments to Avoid
- “Kick it” / “Shoot” / “Pass”
- “Get back” / “Go forward”
- “What are you doing?”
- Comments about referee calls
When parents shout instructions, kids often look toward the sideline instead of focusing on the game. They become confused when parent instructions conflict with what their coach taught them.
When You Sign the Pledge
You’ll agree to the Parent Pledge as part of the online registration process.
Some teams also discuss these principles at the beginning-of-season team meeting.
Source
Our Parent Pledge is adapted from the Positive Coaching Alliance.
Related Pages
- Being a Supportive Parent — Tips for before, during, and after games
- Getting Started — Overview for new families
- Your Child’s Team — Game day basics
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