The success of The Texas Way isn’t just in the hands of coaches, athletes, and officials—it’s a community effort. And some of the most powerful allies we can have on this journey are parents.
When parents buy into The Texas Way pillars: Respect of Others, Control of Self, and Spirit of Competition that The Texas Way promotes, they reinforce the lessons we teach on the field, creating a stronger, more unified message for student-athletes. But how do we get parents on board in a meaningful way?
Research shows that engaged parents can have a significant positive influence on their children’s behavior, performance, and attitudes in athletics and beyond. Here are three proven strategies to engage parents and gain their support for The Texas Way, transforming them into advocates for the initiative.
- Build a Collaborative Partnership
Parents are a key part of the team, and the more we invite them into the conversation, the more likely they are to support and reinforce The Texas Way at home. Research shows that collaboration between schools, coaches, and parents creates a powerful environment where students are more likely to succeed both academically and athletically. When parents feel like they are part of the process, they become our greatest allies.
How to Build a Collaborative Partnership with Parents:
• Host a Parent Nights: One of the best ways to get parents on board is by bringing them together for a night and sharing with them the team vision and values. This can be a powerful time to build support for how you run your program, and a time to explain their role in the team’s success. Use this time to explain The Texas Way pillars—Respect of Others, Control of Self, and Spirit of Competition—and show parents how these values go beyond sports. This is a great opportunity to show The Texas Way Explanation Video.
• Involve Parents in Team Culture: Invite parents to be a part of the team culture by including them in key conversations about the program’s values and goals. Whether it’s through a pre-season meeting or a newsletter, share stories and examples of how their involvement can make a difference. Research shows that when parents understand the purpose and vision behind an initiative, they are more likely to fully support it.
• Open Lines of Communication: Keep communication open and consistent with parents. Regular updates, whether through email, Parentsquare, or SportsYou, help parents stay informed and feel connected. Share positive stories about sportsmanship, highlight student-athletes who are embodying The Texas Way, and celebrate small victories. When parents see the initiative in action, they’re more likely to believe in its importance and participate actively.
- Empower Parents with Practical Tools
Research tells us that when parents have practical, easy-to-use tools to support their children’s development, they’re more likely to be engaged and proactive. The Texas Way can empower parents to reinforce sportsmanship by giving them tangible tools they can use in everyday life. These tools help parents feel confident in their role as role models and supporters of their child’s athletic and personal growth.
How to Empower Parents with Practical Tools:
• Provide Conversation Starters and Resources: Sometimes, parents just don’t know where to begin. By giving them specific conversation starters, we make it easier for them to have meaningful discussions with their kids about respect, self-control, and competition. Share The Texas Way workbooks and videos with them. Even if you have already shared in August, share it again as each new sports season begins. Be sure to highlight the “Family Section” that has encouragement, teaching, and some questions for them to talk about at home.
• Encourage Positive Role Modeling: Remind parents that their behavior sets an example for their children. Research shows that children are highly influenced by how their parents handle stressful situations, such as the intensity of a game. Encourage parents to model calm, respectful behavior during games, praising not just the performance, but the effort and attitude their child displays. When parents model respect and composure, kids follow suit.
You can also make use of the “Fan/Parent Letter” and “Message to Parents” resources in the assets section of your dashboard.
- Foster a Sense of Community and Belonging
When parents feel like they belong to a larger community with shared goals, they are more likely to support initiatives like The Texas Way. Research consistently shows that parents who feel connected to the school and the sports program are more likely to participate, volunteer, and encourage positive behavior in their children. By fostering a sense of community, we can create a supportive environment where everyone works toward the same goal.
How to Foster a Sense of Community:
• Create Parent-Led Groups: Rally your most committed and supportive parents to form a parent leadership committee that helps support The Texas Way in their own way. This group can plan community events, organize volunteer opportunities, or assist in promoting sportsmanship at games. When parents take ownership of the initiative, they feel more invested in its success.
• Highlight Parent Involvement: Make a point of recognizing and celebrating parents who actively support The Texas Way. Whether it’s through social media shout-outs, newsletter mentions, or even a parent appreciation night at a game, acknowledging the important role parents play reinforces the value they bring to the initiative. People are more likely to stay engaged when they feel appreciated and valued.
The Power of Engaged Parents in The Texas Way
By building partnerships, equipping parents with tools, and fostering a sense of community, we can unlock the full potential of parent engagement in The Texas Way. When parents are on board, they reinforce the values of respect, self-control, and integrity in their homes, amplifying the lessons our student-athletes learn on the field. Together, we can create a culture of sportsmanship that transforms lives both on and off the playing field.
Thank you for being a part of this. Thank you for your work. If I can help you or your district in any way, or you want to tell your story, email me at Mackey@2words.tv.
Until next week: This work isn’t complicated…it’s as simple as two words: start ENGAGING PARENTS!
Mackey