Communication is Key

For many of our readers, we have just begun navigating the 2021-2022 hockey season. One thing that can make or break a season for a family or for a whole team is either a lack of communication, or a poor narrative. Although the game is for, and most certainly about the kids, the adults are the ones who need to be leading the way with positive encouragement and communication.

Parent to child communication is a critical part of the youth’s maturation process. Creating and sending the correct message is very important. How one speaks to their child directly impacts how the student and/or athlete may talk to their peers, as well as other adults. A lot of times, kids become a direct echo of what they hear from adults. When speaking with your child or children, it is important to keep the positivity at the forefront, and make sure any sort of critique you may have, follows what the coach is emphasizing. A great time to help a young player is during a USA or AAU Hockey Tournament. This atmosphere usually provides many ups and downs, as well as a lot of parent-child time together.

Communication from parent to coach is also very important. For those who did not play the game, or may not have a great understanding, it is OK to ask questions at an appropriate time. There is a fine line between asking questions and questioning the coach’s teachings. Avoid conflict like this by making sure that everyone is in the right frame of mind and atmosphere when going to understand more about a coach’s philosophies.

Remember that everyone in youth hockey is learning. The athletes, coaches, and parents all have so much to discover in this special journey. Make it a great season.