So Your Daughter Wants To Be A Cheerleader?

Do you know what you are in for as a cheer parent? Here is a quick review of what to expect schedule-wise, financially and emotionally during tryouts, pre-season and the regular season. Try Out Commitments Schedule: To prepare for joining a squad, your daughter may need transportation to dance and gymnastic classes. There will also be specific moves and cheers that will require several hours of practice, and you’ll need to put aside time to help your daughter and give her constructive feedback. Financial: Make sure you include the cost of additional classes, like dance and gymnastics, in your budget. Your daughter will also need to dress the part at her tryout by wearing cheerleading practice clothes. Emotional: Tryouts are like an audition, and your daughter is bound to be nervous. She’ll need a lot of support throughout the process, and immediately after the tryout. Make sure you know when the team will be announced, so you can congratulate or comfort her. Pre-Season Commitments Schedule: If your daughter makes the team, she may be required to attend cheer camp during the summer. Keep this in mind when considering family vacations or planning summer activities. Many teams also utilize fundraising programs that can last throughout the season. Financial: Prepare yourself to pay team registration fees and camp costs, which will include special practice and training gear. You should be able find out the estimated costs for these well in advance. Emotional: After the initial excitement of making the team dies down, your daughter will get very busy preparing for the season. Try to reasonably limit her responsibilities outside of those for the team so that she doesn’t get burnt out. Regular Season Commitments Schedule: Cheerleaders will have a regular schedule for practices, in addition to game performances and competitions. Make sure you get a copy of all schedules in advance so you can make any necessary arrangements to prepare for conflicts. She may also need to continue her dance and gymnastic training. Financial: The costs for your daughter to be on a squad don’t stop at registration fees. She may also need practice wear, uniforms, warm ups, accessories and specific make up. If your daughter is on a competitive team, don’t forget to consider travel costs in your budget. Emotional: Combining daily practices and homework requirements can put a lot of stress and pressure on your daughter, and also on you. Your daughter will need you to be a resource to help her balance her responsibilities and obligations. As with any athlete, there is always a risk of injury during practice or competition. If your daughter’s team stunts and tumbles, be sure that she understands the risks, and the importance of staying healthy and focused. It is important that you don’t underestimate the commitment that your whole family will need to make, but don’t forget that it should be a fun experience for both you and your daughter! She has an amazing opportunity to stay in shape, learn valuable life skills and make true friends.