Parents Code Of Conduct

Above all, remember that most kids join youth sports for one simple reason: to have fun. This is especially true for younger players who are just getting started in organized sports.

With a positive attitude and a basic understanding of hockey, parents, coaches, and players alike can help create an experience that’s rewarding, enjoyable, and memorable for everyone involved.

Parents play a big role in creating a positive hockey experience. Constant yelling or shouting from the stands can take the fun out of the game for kids. Instead, parents should focus on enjoying the game and cheering on good plays—win or lose.

The stands aren’t the place for coaching. When parents try to coach from the sidelines, it can confuse players and add unnecessary pressure. Remember, kids often reflect what they see. If they see mom or dad staying calm and supportive, they’re more likely to do the same on the ice.

Sometimes, the ride home can do more harm than good. While well-intentioned, some parents turn car rides into coaching sessions, which can take the fun out of the game and add pressure that lingers beyond the rink.

It’s important to keep things in perspective—hockey is just one part of a child’s life. The car and home should be places of support, not instruction. Parents aren’t the coaches, and when they offer conflicting advice, it puts kids in a tough spot, forcing them to choose between listening to their coach or their parent.

The best support parents can give is encouragement, not criticism. Let the coaches coach, and just be there to enjoy the ride with your child.

Parents should remember that true improvement comes through practice—not just playing games. Even if a child isn't the star of the team, practice provides valuable opportunities to grow.

Beyond hockey skills, practice teaches important life lessons: teamwork, goal-setting, discipline, and emotional control. These are lessons that extend far beyond the rink and help shape confident, resilient young people both in sports and in life.

Hockey parents can foster a positive experience by ensuring their children wear properly fitted equipment. They should also emphasize fair play and smart decision-making to help reduce the risk of injuries.

Youth hockey offers a wide range of benefits for boys and girls. It teaches sportsmanship, self-discipline, teamwork, and the value of putting the team first. Players also learn how to handle both victory and defeat with respect, while developing healthy habits and a strong foundation in physical fitness.

The extent to which your child grows from their hockey experience depends just as much on you as it does on them. To help your child get the most out of the game, it's important to show consistent support, offer encouragement, and stay genuinely engaged with the team.

Parents play a vital role in shaping their child's experience in youth hockey. Children naturally look to adults for guidance, approval, and behavior to emulate—so it's essential to be a positive role model both on and off the ice. One of the most meaningful ways to do this is by demonstrating good sportsmanship at all times—toward coaches, referees, opponents, and teammates alike.

Always remember: your child is playing hockey. Let them enjoy the game, set their own goals, and grow through their own experiences. Avoid placing your own expectations or ambitions on them—support their journey, don’t steer it.

Avoid putting too much emphasis on winning. A recent survey found that 72% of kids would rather play on a losing team than sit on the bench for a winning one. The true value of youth hockey lies in the fun your child has while building important physical and emotional skills that will benefit them throughout life.

Creating a positive, safe environment that promotes fair play, sportsmanship, discipline, and—above all—fun helps your child grow both as a player and a person. This foundation is key to developing confidence and a healthy self-image.

The most effective way to help children reach their goals and overcome the fear of failure is through positive reinforcement. Mistakes are inevitable—especially in youth sports—but they’re also a valuable part of learning and growth.

When your child does make a mistake (and they will, because they’re still learning), focus on encouragement. Highlight what they’re doing well and remind them of their progress. Your support can help them build confidence and feel like a winner, no matter the outcome.