If you’re a parent of a child in Jiu-jitsu, it is obvious you want your child to do well and succeed. That is a normal expectation. However, there is a line that you need to be aware of. This line separates the healthy, supportive parents from the overbearing, slightly psychotic parents that push their kids too far. You want to make sure your child actually enjoys participating in the sport, so it is highly important that you make sure you support them in a healthy way so that they grow and learn in a positive environment. Here are some ways you can do just that:

1. Stop screaming at competitions– Parents, it is okay to cheer your child on! In fact, it is great, but please don’t shout things such as “break his arm!” or “kill him!” Sadly enough, I have heard these types of phrases yelled towards children and it makes me feel very unsettled. These are not grown adults in a real street fight. These are young, influential children participating in a sport that is actually supposed to teach them respect. You may think you sound normal, but in all honesty you’re probably getting a lot of looks from people who are wondering why you would yell such an absurd statement to a child. If you’re going to cheer a child on, use positive phrases and encouragement.  Read More