The role of parents in promoting the welfare of children involved in sport

The role and importance of parents within sport cannot be underestimated. It is only as a result of parents’ support and encouragement that many children are able to participate in sport. More than this, parents are vital in helping to ensure that the experience children have in sport is not only enjoyable but also safe. Unfortunately, parents are not always able to prevent their children encountering harm in sport and, in fact, some parents can find themselves negatively contributing to children’s well-being and safety in sport. This chapter seeks to unpack the complexity of the parent role within youth sport, particularly with regard to children’s welfare. It starts by reviewing the roles of parents in sport and associated consequences of parental involvement. Next, a review of parents’ involvement in safeguarding children in sport is presented. Finally, the chapter concludes by outlining key strategies that clubs, coaches, and parents can take to ensure that parents are able to be involved in the most positive ways in sport.