Coaching young athletes kids provides its own rewards and challenges. The experience can be overwhelming at times, especially if it's your first time coaching. Keep these guidelines in mind during the season, and you'll avoid some common coaching mistakes while setting your athletes on the right path to have a lifelong love of sports.

Make “Keep It Fun” a philosophy, not a slogan

The No. 1 reason children give for dropping a sport is that it is no longer fun. Take the focus off winning and gear everything you do towards giving kids a positive experience.

Set realistic expectations for the kids

Not every kid is going to be a star, but all kids want to have fun. As a coach, you have to work with each child to help her progress and advance her individual skill level.

Praise beats criticism

Focus on what players do right – and praise them for it — rather than dwelling on what they do wrong. Praise is more motivating than criticism, especially for children still developing their self-esteem.

Organize your practice sessions to be quick paced

The best practices are those in which the kids are moving from drill to drill, always on the go, and always progressing. By the end of the session, they feel as though they've truly accomplished their goals for the day.

Maintain realistic expectations

Coaches (and parents) frequently demand a performance level that is higher than kids can achieve. Trying to meet these expectations puts undue pressure on kids, who may turn away from sports as a result.

Teach sportsmanship

And enforce it, too. Sportsmanship is a concept that has to be continually taught, enforced and respected. Lead by example—your athletes are paying as much attention to your behavior as your words.

Be fairer than fair

Treat every child equally, especially if one of them is your own. Give equal playing time regardless of skill level, and distribute your attention evenly.