Five years ago, I attended my eldest daughter’s first swim meet, I was incredibly excited and equally unprepared. Sitting on the rock-hard metal bleachers with the sun beating down on my unprotected skin, I watched as other, more seasoned parents set up folding chairs, umbrellas, slathered on sunscreen and handed out snacks. Jealousy is perhaps too mild a word.
But that day marked the start of a journey that still continues today, to become a more prepared sideline parent. And while I am still by no means perfect, I find that, by and large, these days I succeed more often than I fail. Here’s what I’ve learned:
Seating
Always have a folding chair in your car. This may seem ridiculous, but I cannot count the number of times another parent has said to me, as I sit in comfort at an hour-long soccer practice, “I wish I had thought of that.”
Sunscreen
There is nothing that can ruin the euphoria of a successful event faster than a sunburn. Bring sunscreen. And an umbrella if one is allowed because when it comes to outdoor sports, shade is often in short supply.
Snacks
No event, no matter how exciting, is fun if you are starving. So, plan ahead and do your research. If you’re packing your own, bring more water and food than you think you’re going to need. And if you’re relying on a concession stand, find out if they take cash or cards, what kinds of food will be available and what their hours will be.
Know your weather
If you’ve lived in Oregon for a while, this one shouldn’t come as a surprise and yet, I cannot count the number of times I (a native Oregonian) have been caught in the cold without a warm enough coat or in the rain without a raincoat, umbrella or waterproof shoes.
And consider stocking your car with a bag or bin for after the game because nothing dirties a car faster than a dirty jersey and mud-clogged cleats.
Phone
If you’re going to be taking a lot of pictures or sending distant family real-time scores then you had better arrive with a fully charged phone and a charger for the car ride home.
Younger sibling support
We encourage our kids to attend their siblings’ events, but the days can be long, which is why I ask everyone to pack a backpack that includes art supplies, books, toys and snacks of their choosing.
Cost
Games, meets and performances often come with added costs. This can be uniforms, costumes, admission fees, concessions, meals out, gas and even sometimes a hotel room. It adds up. Set up a budget – you’ll be glad you did.
Clearing the schedule
Keep track of practice and game schedules in a way that includes your entire family. That can mean a centrally located paper calendar or white board or – for those kids with access to a computer or a phone – a family-wide scheduling app. Because life gets busy and the more familiar your entire family is with the schedule the better.
Volunteering
Don’t be surprised if you are asked – and then asked again – for help. That’s because behind every extracurricular activity is a host of volunteers, many of them parents, helping to keep time, referee and – in a pinch – even coach, truly demonstrating what it means to be a team player.
Enjoy this time
Nothing is ever perfect. Sometimes I still forget the snacks, I neglect the sunscreen and I stand in the rain but I love it anyway. Because watching my kids accomplish big things (and little things too) is amazing every single time and I never regret the days I spend sitting on the sidelines or in the auditorium cheering them on – especially from a comfortable chair.
