Parents do you support your teen's activities?  You may not be a big fan of football, but your teenage son may have what it takes to be an all-star.  Support him even if you don't understand the sport or watch it!

Teens need all the support they can get these days.  Unsupportive parents send the message "I don't love you or I don't care" to teens when they don't show an interest in their activities or put them down for their choice.  This can do more damage than you realize.

Teens who play sports keep out of trouble because they're too busy practicing for the big game or their competition.  It doesn't matter what sport they play as long as they're happy.  You may not like track and field but your teen does that's all that matters.

FYI:  Your teen won't stay a teenager forever and soon will leave for college.  Your teen may receive a full scholarship or partial scholarships to the college of their choice.  This will help offset the cost of tuition, room, and board.  Every little bit helps!

Playing a sport means that fundraising is inevitable.  If you can take a box or two of candy bars with you to work then do it.  If not, help your teen figure out a way to sell the candy bars.  There's always the good ol' going door-to-door approach or calling family and friends to help out.  Social media is really big.  Post something on your Facebook page about your teen selling candy bars.  You never know who'll want to help out.

Sports teach teen about discipline and how to focus.  There's nothing wrong with this.  Who knows, you may see a change in your teen because they're playing a sport.  Maybe they're more cooperative and respectful.  Perhaps they're offering to do chores (if they don't already) around the hours.  They'll have to show their coach and teammates respect otherwise they'll be kicked off the team.  Of course, teens need to respect themselves before they'll be able to truly respect others.

Remember that your child came from you and share your DNA but may not share your interests.  Let them chose their own activities.  When they do, show your support by being happy for them and showing up at games and or competitions.  It will mean the world to them that you're in the stands cheering them onto victory.