If your children are interested, encourage them to play soccer. If they are not, do not force them.

Teach children and young people that doing their best is as important as winning. Accept the result of each game without undue disappointment.

Focus on your child’s effort rather than their overall achievement. If you do this, this will help the children to set realistic goals and reduce the importance of winning.

Encourage children and young people to always play by the rules.

Never ridicule or yell at a child for making a mistake or losing a game.

Remember that children and young people are involved in organised sport for their enjoyment, not yours.

Manage your expectations; children and young people are not mini professionals.

Children and young people learn best by example. Applaud both teams.

If you disagree with an official raise the issue through the appropriate channels. Do not question the official’s judgement and honesty in public. Remember that most officials give their time and effort for your child’s enjoyment.

Support BMSC’s efforts to remove verbal and physical abuse from soccer.

If you have an issue or are concerned about how your son or daughter is being treated: