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The last several days we have been sharing ways parents can be supportive of their children as they play tennis in lessons, play days, or competition. We have already said it is important to be spectators instead of being a participant, teaching our children to solve problems on their own, being respectful of those we play against, and to be positive when we cheer but don't be like a Raiders or Green Bay fan.
The conclusion to the article from TennisPro Magazine, the journal publication of the Professional Tennis Registry, offer two points to make the lesson day, match day, or play day special and the let our children PLAY.
Make match day special, prepare and recover.
"Parents maynot be able to do much during a match, but there is a lot they can do to make match days special. Being involvedas a team parent-coach for away matches is a great way to show your kids that you are committed to their development in their activity and can help develop a sense of unity. Parents can make sure the child has everything they need on the day of the lesson or play day, shoes, water, racket, balls if needed, change of clothes, grips, strings, first aid, snacks, and electrolyte drink. Special meals or traditions before tennis can help each child get into a good routine. I don't recommend rewards for winning or if they do a good job during a lesson because then losing or having a bad day may feel even worse.
Let the kids PLAY.
"Parents should remember that only 2% of the top 100 juniors actually make it to the professional level, followed by another 2% that actually make a living at it. So it is wise to focus on the other benefits, exercise, mastery of a skill, fun, and play. If tennis becomes like school work it will become a tedious activity that no longer brings joy or purpose to the child. Parent's can help with the accountability aspect, but in the end, let them play."
Tennis Pro Magazine Nov-Dec 2014. Professional Tennis Registry.
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