What are the responsibilities of parents in promoting Safe Sport?

The responsibilities of parents in promoting Safe Sport center around the well-being and development of their children, which includes the critical role of educating them about personal boundaries and encouraging open communication. By discussing boundaries, parents help children understand acceptable behaviors and how to recognize and report inappropriate conduct. Open conversation fosters trust, enabling children to feel safe sharing their experiences and concerns with their parents. This supportive environment is vital for creating a culture of safety and respect within sports.

In contrast, criticizing a child's performance may create an atmosphere of pressure and anxiety, detracting from their overall experience in sports. Focusing solely on winning, especially at any cost, can lead to unhealthy competition and disregard for safety. Additionally, insisting that a child participates in every competitive event without considering their feelings or well-being can promote burnout and resentment, ultimately compromising their enjoyment and safety in sports.