Why watching your child's every practice isn't a great idea.

When it comes to parenting and supporting your child in their chosen activities, it can be difficult to know how much involvement is helpful and how much is too much. Watching your child's every practice can be tempting, especially if you are a very involved parent, but it is important to consider the impact that hovering can have on your child.

First and foremost, constant observation can be intimidating and distracting to a young athlete. It can lead to feelings of being watched and judged, rather than feeling supported and encouraged. This can cause them to become less focused and less confident in their skills, leading to poorer performance.

It is also important to remember that children need to learn to take responsibility for their own performance and progress. Allowing them to practice without you can help them to develop independence, confidence and self-discipline. This will help them to become more self-reliant and increase their chances of success.

Another important factor to consider is that your child may not be as naturally talented as you are. They may need to work harder than others to achieve their goals, and it can be difficult if they feel that they are being compared or judged by their parent. Being supportive, but taking a step back, can help them to remain motivated and focused on their goals.

Finally, it is important to remember that practice is not supposed to be a performance. It is a time for your child to learn and develop their skills, which can take time. If they are constantly being watched, they may become fixated on performing perfectly, rather than learning and making mistakes. This can lead to feelings of frustration and defeat.

In conclusion, while it can be tempting to watch your child's every practice, it is important to consider the impact that hovering can have on their development. Taking a step back and allowing your child to practice without being constantly watched can help them to develop independence, confidence and self-discipline. It can also help them to learn and make mistakes without feeling judged or compared.