Silent Support: A Parent's Guide to Game Day

One of the most challenging aspects of youth baseball isn't teaching kids how to hit a curveball—it's helping parents understand their role in their child's athletic journey.

The bleachers aren't a coaching platform. They're a place to show silent, steady support for your child and their teammates. When parents become overly involved in game situations, it creates confusion for the players and unnecessary pressure that can harm their development.

Here's what we expect from our parents during games:

• Let the coaches coach

• Let the umpires umpire

• Let the players play

• Most importantly, let the kids learn from their mistakes

The car ride home shouldn't be a performance review. Instead of asking "Why did you swing at that high pitch?" try "I loved watching you play today." This simple shift in approach helps maintain the joy of the game and strengthens the parent-child relationship.

Your child's performance on the field isn't a reflection of your parenting. By maintaining perspective and showing unconditional support, you're contributing to their long-term success both in baseball and in life.