Many communities offer what they call "Pay for Play" recreational teams for children and youth ages 5 - 18. This arrangement guarantees your child equal play time on the court or field. This can be a wonderful way for your young child to be introduced to a sport while also giving opportunity for all members to develop their skills. However, as children get older, particularly in their teenage years, it can become a power struggle between the players and their coaches if "teen attitudes prevail unchecked." Let me explain, some teens view "pay for play" as their opportunity/right to get on the court or field and "do their own thing." They are not particularly interested in what the coaches or their teammates have to say. They have "paid to play." Ah, but have they squandered an opportunity to also learn? The opportunity to learn more about the sport, learn more about themselves, learn more about team play? Although a coach of "pay for play" teams cannot limit the time played during a game, they certainly can and I hope do, provide consequences for inappropriate player attitudes during their limited practice time. (A few extra laps around the court or track seems right on.) If you decide that a "pay for play" recreational league is right for your child or teen remind them that it is a chance for them to learn and develop skills beyond what they are bringing to the game. "Pay for play" leagues have a place in the health and well-being of our youth but it is up to us, the adults and parents, to assure that our youth approach it in a respectful and fun manner. IT'S YOUR TURN TO TALK BACK! WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS?
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It!-------------------- Written by Laura Breite - Mothering Guide San Diego, CA ------------------------ Editors and publishers are free to reprint this article as long as it's reprinted in its entirety and the signature line remains intact. Please direct a courtesy copy to laurabreite@mac.com or snail mail it to: Laura Breite www.MotheringGuide.com 13422 Sawtooth Rd San Diego, CA 92129 |
  
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