Remember that your child's enjoyment is the most important thing. Do not try to force an unwilling child to participate.
Always encourage your child to play within the laws and the spirit of the laws of the game. Support any action taken by team managers and coaches to reinforce this. Applaud good play by the opposition and others in your child's team as much as you applaud your own child.
Respect all officials and their decisions both at the time and afterwards, and insist that your child does the same. Don't question their judgement publicly and never their honesty.
Make sure that you always behave in a manner that encourages respect for the spirit of the game, for the officials, for the opposition and for the rest of your team. Don't be sarcastic or publicly question the manager's selections or decisions.
Help and support your child in developing his/her talents but don't press them too hard and try to live your own sporting glory through them. Be supportive rather than yelling or sarcastic when a young player has made a mistake. Never punish or belittle a child for losing or making mistakes. Support your child's involvement and help them to enjoy their sport.
Remember cricket is a team game and all the players are entitled to their fair chance. However talented your child may be, don't expect him/her to always open the batting and the bowling and have first call on the nets as well. Support and encourage all members of your team.
Respect and support team managers and coaches who give up their time for your child. Listen carefully to their advice to your child, respect their decisions and don't criticise them behind their backs or to your child. If you have a genuine point to make, ask to have a quiet and private word with them.
Ask yourself how you can help. Most clubs and schools will welcome those with cricket expertise who can become properly involved with some coaching, umpiring or scoring, but everyone can find a role somewhere, helping sometimes with transport or refreshments, running a social event or 'seconds' stall, helping with fund raising etc.
Try and make sure your child is neatly turned out and respects his/her own and the club or school's equipment. There is no need to rush out and spend lots of money when children are growing out of things rapidly and there are often good 'seconds' available. Seek the advice of your child's team manager about what equipment is necessary and where you can best get it.
One of the lessons of cricket is loyalty. Remember that school has first call in term- time but that clubs put a lot of time and money into supporting young players. Support your child's
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