And let the kids enjoy it. If you can't tell whether or not your kid enjoys it, you're doing something wrong.

I was the intense parent, critiquing (I wasn't coaching - I know that now) my son's races and such after his events (swimmer). I read that statement somewhere and it hit me like a ton of bricks. He was about 10 at the time and is now 16 and still swims in our summer league.

My favorite moments are after his races grabbing the fist bump, quick hug, or even the glance across the pool if I happen to be working the meeting signaling that I am proud of him and enjoy watching. Let the coaches coach, I enjoy being the parent.

My kids are into lacrosse and swimming. I couldn't even spell lacrosse growing up in southern Indiana, and I'm a terrible swimmer. Even if I wanted to helicopter parent and get on their case, I wouldn't know what I'm talking about. I just sit back and enjoy the games/meets, comfortable in my ignorance.

In the past, they've played baseball and soccer, which I played a lot as a kid. I've had to stop myself mid-critique on a number of occasions, and probably failed to stop a few times. It takes a lot of restraint.

I cheer at the wrong time and get upset at the wrong calls...actually, it's the best. I just go out and enjoy a nice day and watch my son having a blast.

Great point

few of the problems I have witnessed in football and soccer (baseball scared me off from even trying it out as a parent). I think it’s a combo of two things - there’s no college scholarships/professional opportunities that parents are fighting for and rugby players cultivate a unique form of competition that’s very focused on camaraderie. When most parents also played, it creates a very laid back sideline. I hope it’s that way everywhere.