Guidelines for Parents of Cheerleaders
Here's a little advice to make sure you and your child is getting a great experience.
Getting Started
If your child is showing interest in becoming a cheerleader, DON'T WAIT! Gather all the information you can on cheerleading and tumbling as soon as possible. It's never too early. Start by visiting cheerleading and gymnastics facilities in your area. Preview the class that your child will be participating. Most gyms invite you to take your first lesson free. This is a great way to get your child involved in the decision. Some gyms can give you an honest evaluation of your child's skill level that will help you find the appropriate teams, and classes to keep your cheerleader challenged. Get all the school and recreation league information on tryouts, schedules, and other requirements. Ask questions to find out when practices and games are scheduled, what it will cost, what kind of commitment is expected from the parents, what are the safety precautions, and what is the experience of the coach/ staff member? Many of the skills that cheerleading teams require, are skills that take years of practice and training to master. So don't wait. Make the necessary calls, ask the questions and get your child enrolled today in order to prepare her for future cheerleading opportunities.
When you don't agree with the coach
What can you do when you don't agree with a decision that the coach makes?
Most coaches will advise you to pick your battles. Many problems can be avoided when parents are careful about the issues they choose to bring to the coach's attention. Remember, kids often complain about something one day, and by the next, it's forgotten. If it is important to you, make an appointment to talk with the coach. Most problems should not be discussed during practice times and should never be discussed in the presence of your child, the team, or other parents. Don't be afraid to talk with your child's coach. Most of the time there's good reasoning behind a coach's decision. Often the reason is something that the parent did not realize. Please understand that no child can be an exception to the rules set forth. All rules must be followed consistently for the coach to gain the team's confidence and support. For older kids, let them talk it out with their coach on their own. In some cases, a little less intervention from mom and dad can allow for an opportunity for growth.
Why parents are sometimes not invited
This is a tough thing to swallow. You're investing so much time, and so much money, and now you can't even watch? That's because coaches know that if they are to get the most out of practice time, there must to be NO distractions. Observers (especially friends and family members) can be very distracting to individuals, as well as, the entire team. Coaches only have a few hours or less, each week to get a team working as one, so making every minute count is crucial for the team's success. Most coaches will set up a scheduled practice when parents are invited to watch. Otherwise, try to understand that, in this case, keeping your distance is probably the best way to support your child's team.
Getting Involved
Understand that getting your child involved in cheerleading is a HUGE commitment on your part. Be sure to read, ask questions and understand what is involved. Talk with the coach and ask for feedback on your child so you can work together at making your child get the most out of this experience. Inquire what parent groups are available. There are always plenty of "behind the scene" opportunities for parents to get involved. For example, most teams have Birthday Parents or Competition Moms, etc., who help with special events. You can also help in others ways such as offering to help with paperwork or measuring the team for uniforms. Whatever you do, get involved in the team. Participating in these behind the scene efforts will let your child know that you are behind them. And, you'll have a better handle on the progression of both your child and the team as a whole. Involved parents know what's going on.
Why practices are so important
It is imperative that parents take practices seriously. If you have a team of twenty cheerleaders, and one person is missing - the entire team is affected. Cheerleading isn't like a football team - there's no second string sitting on the bench to fill in. Absences can lead to mistakes and mistakes can lead to injuries. The practices that precede a big event like a game or competition are especially crucial. It does help to schedule your errands and appointments around your child's practices and events. This not only ensures the success of the team, but it also teaches your child what it takes to be part of a team. The camaraderie of the team, dedication, and trust factors all play into you and your child's commitment.