Coaching a children's sports team can satisfy more than a desire to get more involved in your children's sporting activities — it can give you a chance to gain organizational and motivational skills that may help you in your career. But always ask your child first.

If your child indicates that she would like you to coach her team and you think you have the calm temperament to enjoy it, give yourself time to prepare for the upcoming season. Figure out how to fit practices and games into your schedule, how to prepare for practices, and bone up on the rules and strategies of the sport. You also need to contact the league board to make certain they know that you want to help out as a coach.

Check out some children's books or videos at the local library or purchase some books aimed at beginners because they are your best bet to learn about equipment, rules, fundamentals, skills, and so on. Sharing a book with your child is a wonderful way for the two of you to discover more about the sport — together.