KEY TIPS TO SUPPORTING YOUR CHILDREN

Behind every aspiring Australian Athlete's journey to the top lies the devoted and unwavering encouragement of their parents. However, knowing how best to support and fuel your Little Athlete’s dreams can be hard. 

Athletics West is committed to supporting athletes on and off the field through meaningful partnerships. Working with our partners at Kumon we wanted to discover new ways our parents can support their kids.

“Kumon is similar to athletics, with partnership and parent support being essential for success. In athletics, little athletes train regularly and perform to the best of their ability. Their coaches guide the athletes through their training regimen, and parents support by encouraging their children to do their best,” Joanne Adam, Division Leader of Kumon WA.

“At Kumon, students study their worksheets and put in their best effort. Instructors create an individualised study plan for students, guiding students through their programme. Lastly, parents encourage their children to practise their mathematics and English, and complete their assigned worksheets to the best of their ability.”

 “With the support of parents, little athletes and Kumon students are better able to flourish and succeed.”

Whether it’s in the classroom, on the track or in the kitchen, here are some top tips to help you, help your kids be their best.

Tip One: Lead Like a Legend.

Children are likely to replicate your behaviours, so it is important you are setting a good example. Prioritising your own mental and physical health not only makes you feel great but shows your children the benefits too. Work as a team to ensure you are both maintaining healthy habits. 

Tip Two: Have a Goal Setting Gathering.

Setting goals with your child allows you to understand exactly what they are trying to achieve. Achieving goals allows children to develop self-confidence, experience a sense of accomplishment and encourages them to believe in their abilities. Our friends at Kumon have created a step-by-step guide to help start the conversation with your child.

Tip Three: Encourage Nutritious Nibbles.

It’s important to always Go for 2 Fruit & 5 Veg, but why? School of Health Sciences at the University of Newcastle states that ‘children who eat more fruit were found to have increased focus and motivation and as a result, achieved higher academic achievement.’ Healthy eating habits also provide more energy for your little champion to perform their best whilst also reducing the risk of facing mental health challenges.

Tip Four: Support a Healthy Sporting Spirit.

No one likes it when Dad loses it. That's why it’s good to emphasise the importance of sportsmanship, teamwork, and personal improvement rather than just winning. Kids can struggle to accept losing a race or receiving low grades in the classroom, so it is important to allow them to learn from their successes and their setbacks too. Like our friends at True Sport say, ‘There is no place for poor sideline behaviour!’

Tip Five: Become a Kumon Kid!

Through partners like Kumon, you can support and encourage your children at home, on the track and in their academic endeavours. The Kumon Method ensures that children advance at their own pace, fostering self-confidence and a sense of accomplishment.

By nurturing positive learning methods and fostering self-directed learning, you can effectively encourage and motivate your children both academically and athletically, all while promoting healthy physical and mental habits.

To find out more about how Kumon's programmes can help your children achieve their goals, find your local Kumon Education Centre HERE.

This article is sponsored by Kumon Australia.

For more information, contact Athletics West at admin@athleticswest.com.au or call 08 6272 0480.