Advice for Parents & Guardians
What do Clubs Provide?
Clubs are important for the health, education, and socialisation of their members.
These clubs often provide resources for individuals who want to participate in activities – whether individual-based activity or a team based activity – it can be a fantastic social hub for people of all ages.
What Are The Values of a Club?
While specifics might vary, a club’s core values should be centred around enjoyment, respect, integrity, ambition and commitment.
What is The Objective of a Club?
To promote the health and fitness of members.
As part of this, there should be clear safeguarding messages, with clear, straightforward contact points and simple procedures. These contact points and procedures should be well-advertised and communicated with members.
What Are The Expectations You Should Have From a Club?
They include:
- Respect yourself, all club members, coaches and staff.
- Play fairly and be honest.
- Applaud the efforts of others.
- Avoid inappropriate language. Say only good things about others.
- Resolve disagreements in a positive way – and follow club procedures if this is not possible.
Key Questions to Ask Your Child
If you’re watching from afar, pay attention to your child’s body language. Often, if the Adult Lead is an aggressive speaker or shouter, you will notice that your child will not give eye contact and hang their head every time the adult speaks to them. This likely means your child’s confidence has been knocked and this should be considered a “red flag”.
Whether you see any “red flags” or not, it’s often a good idea to spend 5 minutes after your child’s session to ask them questions about their session, such as:
- How was training?
- What happened today?
- What did you do today?
- Are you enjoying training?
- What was your coach like today?
- What did you learn today?
- Did you know you can tell me anything?
Remember to be open minded, be attentive by giving your child you full attention without distraction, show acknowledgement, simply repeating back what’s been said, and check your body language. Closed off body language can display uninterest and an unwillingness to listen.
Your child might not wish to speak with you every time, but these questions will help you to engage with your child and demonstrate your support.