Asking parents to play their part
We know that the part a parent plays in their child’s sport can have a big impact on their child’s wellbeing and how they feel about sport.
This year’s Keeping Your Child Safe in Sport Campaign runs from 6-12 October 2025 and we’re asking sports parents to play their part and talk to their children about how they can bring out their best through positive actions and support.
Helping parents bring out the best in their child
We want sports parents to consider how they show support before, during and after sport. We’re asking parents to:
- watch a video to hear real children and parents discuss which parent actions matters most and why these actions can bring out their best
- download questions to help them start conversations with their own child about the kind of support that works for them
- talk to their child about what they can do to help them bring out their best
What can you do for Keeping Your Child Safe in Sport Week 2025?
We want all sports clubs, activity organisations and schools to help us get this message out to parents through their own communication channels. Below we will provide you with resources and tools to do this. You can adapt some of these resources so that the messages speak to your parents and carers.
We’re asking organisations to:
- download and read our Partner Activation Pack (available soon)
- share our social media graphics, videos and copy in the run up to and during Keeping Your Child Safe in Sport Week 6-12 October
- share a link to our Keeping Your Child Safe in Sport parents' page so that they can watch our video and download our questions
- promote and use our posters, wallet cards, conversation prompts and parent guides in your organisation
Why do parents matter in sport?
There are multiple studies (The role of parents in the motivation of young athletes: a systematic review Jan 2024) that show parents are one of the main influencers that shape a child’s experience and participation in sport and physical activity.
They show that a strong, positive parent-child relationship helps children feel safe and secure and supports positive behaviour in the children themselves. This allows them to take part in sport confidently, regulate their own emotions better and to build confidence, motivation, self-esteem and healthy relationships.
Some parents might not realise that certain actions can negatively affect their child's experience in sport. Parenting can be tough, and every family faces different challenges. Things like financial worries, lack of support, or their own childhood experiences can all influence how parents support their children in sport.
That’s why we need to help parents and carers to reflect on their behaviours and better understand what their child needs to keep them safe, secure and help them to enjoy and thrive in sport.