Unfortunately, many volunteers may have no background in teaching skills, conditioning, psychology, growth and development, or even experience playing sports. And despite good intentions, untrained coaches may put your child's health at risk. Progress is being made. The U.S. Olympic Committee has recently developed a Sports Safety Course for coaches with the American Red Cross. These steps are important because educated coaches can help prevent injuries.
Parents can do their part by investigating the credentials of coaches.
Ask the following questions to gain insight about your child's coach and the program's safety. Be consumer-wise about selecting a sports program for your child. Investigate the program and the coach in the same way you would a day care center or baby sitter. Having a parent as a coach does produce extra pressure on the child, and it may be difficult for the parent to develop an attitude towards the child that is neither too critical nor too approving.