Region 1335 Kid Zone

In recent months, the national media has focused on the negative, even violent, behavior of players, coaches and parents involved in youth sports. In a proactive effort to counteract this trend of violence, AYSO is initiating a program called Kids Zone. (Read

As part of AYSO's education agenda, Kids Zone is a dynamic program targeted to eliminate negative sideline behavior. It is aimed toward producing a thoroughly positive impact on everyone involved in youth soccer. To execute this program, three basic elements are involved:

1. The Badge. This is a pin-on button bearing the program's logo. This will be worn by program supporters at games, and will serve as a reminder of the importance of positive sideline behavior.

2. The Sign. A large sideline, which lists positive behavior standards, will be posted at the entrance of participating fields. Parents and spectators who will abide by these standards are welcome -- all others are not.

3. The Pledge. We will request AYSO parents to sign a pledge that holds them to the Kids Zone standards.

Kids Zone Parent Pledge

1. I pledge to be on time or early when dropping off my child for a practice or game. I understand that it is embarrassing for my child to be late to a game or practice and that I am putting him/her at physical risk by not providing adequate time for warm up. I understand the importance of picking up my child on time for all games and practices. This shows respect for the coach, who has other time commitments, and it tells my child that he or she is my top priority. ______
2. I understand that the top three reasons kids play sports are to have fun, make new friends and learn new skills. I understand that the game is for the kids, and that I will encourage my child to have fun and keep sport in its proper perspective. I understand that athletes do their best when they are emotionally healthy, so I will be positive and supportive. ______
3. I will redefine what it is to be a “Winner” in my conversations with my child. A Winner is someone who makes maximum effort, continues to learn and improve, and does not let mistakes, or fear of making mistakes, stop them. I understand that mistakes are an inevitable part of any game and that people learn from their mistakes. I understand that all children are born with different abilities and that the true measure is not how my child compares to others but how he/she is doing in comparison to his/her best self. _____
4. I will “Honor the Game.” I understand the importance of setting a good example of sportsmanship to my child. No matter what others may do, I will show respect for all involved in the game including coaches, players, opponents, opposing fans, and referees. I understand that officials, coaches, and players make mistakes. If the referee makes a “questionable” call, I will continue to respect the individual and be silent! _____
5. I understand that games can be exciting times for my child who is trying to deal with the fast-paced action of the game, respond to opponents, referees, teammates and listen to coaches. I will not add confusion by yelling out instructions. During the game, I will limit my comments to encouraging my child and other players for both teams. ______
6. I will not make negative comments about the game, coaches, referees or teammates in my child's presence. I understand that this plants a seed, which can negatively influence my child's motivation and overall experience. ______
I agree to honor the AYSO Parent Pledge in my words and actions.

4. The Video. This is a 12 minute documentary that introduces AYSO's principles and its Kids Zone action plan to new participants. Viewers will also watch a parent intervene to change another parent's negative behavior.

In order to make this program work, we need your help!

The Kids Zone video, badges and signs are available from the AYSO Supply Center.

AYSO National Website

Major League Soccer

FIFA

US Soccer