As parents, we certainly want to do everything we can to ensure the success of our children, but that can be hard if you are not familiar with their chosen sport. Here are some ideas on how to help your child in track and field.

1. Motivate them without pressure. Encourage improved effort instead of putting the emphasis on winning the race. Many times in running, your toughest competitor is yourself.
2. Give them exposure. Take them to running events or track meets where they can learn more about their event and become excited by seeing specialists in their chosen distance or event.
3. Find out more about the equipment needed for their race distance. Ask their coach, and head to a specialty running store for advice on the correct spikes or training shoe.
4. Don’t let them dwell on mistakes. We all make them. Encourage them to learn from mistakes and emphasize doing their best.
5. Make healthy foods available to them. Food is fuel for our sport.
6. Be careful what you share with them about your history in the sport. Tell kids about the fears and concerns you had before an event, not how great you did in the event.
7. Be supportive. Remind them that your ultimate goal is for them to be happy, healthier and stronger. In your mind they are your kid first, and athlete second.

Everyone has their own reason for running. Keeping it fun for your child will keep them motivated and on track to success!