Parents / Spectators have a great influence on children's enjoyment and success in football. All children play football because they first and foremost love the game – it's fun. It is important to remember that however good a child becomes at football within your club it is important to reinforce the message to parents / spectators that positive encouragement will contribute to:

• Children enjoying football.

• A sense of personal achievement.

• Self-esteem.

• Assist to improve the child's skills and techniques.

A parent's / spectator's expectations and attitudes have a significant bearing on a child's attitude towards:

• Other players.

• Officials.

• Managers.

• Spectators.

Ensure that parents / spectators within your club are always positive and encouraging towards all of the children not just their own.

Encourage parents / spectators to:

• Applaud the opposition as well as you own team.

• Avoid coaching the child during the game.

• Not to shout and scream.

• Respect the referee's decision.

• Give attention to each of the children involved in football not just the most talented.

• Give encouragement to everyone to participate in football.