{"id":8019,"date":"2017-04-25T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2017-04-25T00:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/togethercounts.com\/preparing-your-child-for-tryouts-or-auditions\/"},"modified":"2017-04-25T00:00:00","modified_gmt":"2017-04-25T00:00:00","slug":"preparing-your-child-for-tryouts-or-auditions","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/togethercounts.com\/es\/preparing-your-child-for-tryouts-or-auditions\/","title":{"rendered":"Preparing Your Child for Tryouts or Auditions"},"content":{"rendered":"

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The trend toward specialization and heightened competition in kid\u2019s activities has significantly increased the likelihood your child will be expected to participate in a tryout or an audition.\u00a0This is true if your child\u2019s passion is soccer, dance, drama, swimming or virtually any other sport or activity.\u00a0Kids are expected to endure the pressures of these evaluations at a younger and younger age.\u00a0As a partner of the Together Counts\u2122 program for healthy, active living, we wanted to share some tips for parents to help your children prepare and take it all in stride.<\/p>\n

Tell Them What to Expect<\/strong><\/p>\n

If it is your child\u2019s first tryout or audition he is likely to be anxious simply because he does not know what to expect.\u00a0Explain he will be doing the same types of activities he does each time he practices, plays or performs.<\/p>\n

When you talk to your child, clarify that the evaluators are not looking for perfection \u2013 everyone makes mistakes. A child\u2019s reaction following a mistake can demonstrate their maturity and confidence; skills as important as technical skills. Take the opportunity to highlight your child\u2019s strengths by saying things like, \u00abYou are the kind of person who never gives up\u00bb or \u00abOne of your strengths is your ability to keep going even if you miss a step or forget a line.\u00bb<\/p>\n

Be Realistic<\/strong><\/p>\n

Boosting your child\u2019s confidence is important, but so is a realistic assessment of the likely result of the process.\u00a0It can be difficult for parents to accurately gauge their child\u2019s skill level.\u00a0Talk to your child\u2019s coach or teacher about your child.\u00a0Ask where your child\u2019s skills are in comparison to the group as a whole. Ask him or her to highlight your child\u2019s strengths and weaknesses.<\/p>\n

We all want the best for our children. It is easy to believe \u00abthe best\u00bb is the most challenging part, or a roster spot on the most competitive team.\u00a0However, the purpose of the evaluation process is to place your child with children of comparable skill and commitment to ensure his continued growth.\u00a0Your child will not thrive in an environment where he feels he is often falling short of expectations.\u00a0Each child develops at his own pace.\u00a0This is true of physical stature, technical skills and social skills.\u00a0All are important in an assessment.<\/p>\n

Based on your observations, and the feedback you received from your child\u2019s coach or teacher, help your child develop realistic goals.<\/p>\n

Above all, make it absolutely clear to your child your love is not conditioned upon the outcome of the assessment.\u00a0Your child should know, without any doubt, you are proud of him no matter the result.\u00a0Your only expectation should be for your child to put forth his best effort.<\/p>\n

Be Prepared<\/strong><\/p>\n

If you still have a bit of time prior to tryouts, there are a few things you can do to prepare your child.\u00a0Your child can spend time working to improve his skills.\u00a0Focus on the skills your coach or teacher identified as weaknesses, or the skills you know the evaluator will be looking for.\u00a0Typically, this can be done at home.\u00a0Many athletic organizations offer pre-tryout camps to help prepare athletes and\u00a0supplement practice at home.\u00a0If this is not available in your activity or area, you can ask your coach or teacher to schedule a tryout practice for your team or class, or your child individually.<\/p>\n

It probably goes without saying, but prior to the assessment be sure you child gets sufficient sleep, is hydrated and eats nutritious meals.\u00a0Also plan to be early, not just on time.\u00a0No need to add to the pressure with concerns about missing the assessment or being late.<\/p>\n

Explain the Importance of Effort and Attitude<\/strong><\/p>\n

Your child cannot control the outcome of the assessment. She can control her effort and attitude. Evaluators look for children who are giving their all.\u00a0It is an indication that the child cares and is willing to work to get what they want.<\/p>\n

Assessments like tryouts and auditions can be stressful for parents and children.\u00a0Remind your child to have fun and smile.\u00a0Evaluators will be looking for children with good attitudes, who enjoy what they are doing.<\/p>\n

ActivityTree.com<\/a>\u00a0is the nation\u2019s largest resource for kids activities.\u00a0 Each year we help millions of parents get their kids active and involved in everything from archery to zoo adventures.\u00a0 Visit\u00a0<\/em>http:\/\/www.activitytree.com<\/a>\u00a0to find kid\u2019s activities near you!<\/em><\/p>\n

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For more tips for your kids, take a look at these other articles from Together Counts!<\/p>\n