Parents' Code of Ethics
It’s important for parents, schools and sports to work closely together. Parents who are concerned about their child’s development must take an interest in their child’s well-being and be aware of the educational values conveyed by sport. They must therefore collaborate in the use of sports as a means of education and expression, so that their child can reap the benefits. To fulfill their duties, parents must adopt the following behaviors:
- Show respect for coaches, managers and officials
- Behave well and use appropriate language
- Avoid verbal abuse of participants and support all efforts to this end
- Never forget that their children play sports for their own enjoyment, not for their parents’.
- Encourage their children to respect their team’s or program’s sportsmanship charter, rules of play and house rules.
- Recognize their children’s good moves as well as those of opposing participants
- Help their children improve their skills and sportsmanship
- Teach their children that an honest effort is worth as much as victory
- Objectively judge their children’s prospects and avoid projections
- Help their children choose an activity or activities to suit their tastes
- Never ridicule a child for making a mistake or losing a game.
- Avoiding family discrimination against girls
- Encourage their children by their example to respect rules and resolve conflicts without aggression or violence
Does your child play sport?
So much the better! Taking part in sport is a great way to acquire skills, counter sedentary lifestyles and develop a solid understanding of teamwork and sportsmanship. Young athletes gain confidence, self-esteem and a better body image.
Coaches are responsible for providing a safe environment for their athletes. Parents have the right to speak with the coach or coach’s employer if they have any questions or concerns.
Do you suspect violence or aggression?
Do you have concerns about a child and want to talk to someone? Contact the Canadian Centre for Child Protection. If you suspect abuse, report it to your local child protection or police department.
- Canadian Sport Helpline
- Kids, I’m listening
- Guidelines for adults interacting with young athletes
- Reporting child sexual abuse and misconduct
- HelpMeVP.ca
- Cybertip.ca
- Sport Manitoba support line: 1-877-737-9875
- Respect Group, toll free : 1-888-329-4009 or e-mail resourceline@respectgroupinc.com
As a parent, what questions should I ask?
Parents have an important influence on the organization in which their child is registered. By encouraging them to adopt policies and procedures aimed at protecting athletes and coaches, parents contribute to improving our sports system and creating a safe and enjoyable environment for all. Here are some things you can do as a parent to contribute to MER.
- Ask: what type and level of training and certification does the organization require of trainers?
- Ask: What is the background check process for coaches and volunteers?
- Ask: has the organization declared its commitment to the responsible training movement?
- Ask: does the organization adhere to the rule of two?
- Ask: does the organization apply a code of conduct?
- Ask: what processes are in place to protect underage athletes from unethical behavior?
- Ask: Does the organization require or promote training in ethical decision-making and respect for parents, coaches and volunteers?
- Ask: does the organization have a policy on team travel?
- Be prepared to leave any organization that does not adhere to the responsible training movement and recommended policies and procedures.
Education
- Choosing a child safety organization – Priorité jeunesse
- Parent’s Guide – Priorité Jeunesse
- NCCP training courses(Ethical decision-making, Taking action)
- Respect and Sport online training
- Priorité jeunesse training courses for coaches, volunteers and parents
