Many people are under the impression that a cheerleading squad picks the members, but ideally the members also choose the squad. So, if your son or daughter has voiced an interest in cheerleading, you shouldn’t just sign them up.
Like any program or person you’d entrust with your children, you need to research and gather as much information as possible before they try out.
Whether it’s a cheer class at the local gym or their school cheerleading program, you’ll want to ask questions and get some answers before they sign up.
What You Should Ask and Find Out
How Safe is the Program?
- Is the instructor/coach certified in safety, first aid, and CPR?
- Is the instructor/coach trained in the skills they’ll be teaching? i.e. gymnastics, stunts, jumps.
- Do they use the proper equipment and safety guidelines? i.e. mats
- What about spotters and other safety procedures and rules? i.e. no jewelry, no metal or sharp hair accessories, etc.
- Is an adult always present during practice? What is the ratio of adults to students?
- Do they have a well supplied first aid kit?
- Do they have an emergency procedure plan and do they practice it regularly?
How is the Program Conducted?
- Is the procedure for tryouts written and thoroughly explained?
- What is the practice schedule?
- What is the disciplinary procedure?
- Does the squad have a set of rules and regulations they adhere to?
- What about finances? How is fundraising handled? Who controls the money?
What More You Can Do
- Talk to the coach, try to get a feeling for what she/he expects. What are their goals for the squad? Are they highly competitive? Just to have fun?
- Talk to other parents.
- Talk to the previous or current squad members.
- Attend a practice or performance.
- Talk to your child and see what his/her expectations are. Make sure they understand the commitment they are making to the team.
The decision to join or try out for a cheerleading squad should not be taken lightly. These people and the way they conduct their program could influence your child in many ways. The more knowledge you have about them and the type of program they run, the better.
You wouldn’t consider leaving your child for hours in the hands of a stranger, so don’t hesitate to learn more about the personnel, the program and instructors of a cheerleading program.
Remember to follow your instincts, use your common sense and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Your child’s experience as a cheerleader should be a happy one and above all else it should be safe.
