For me, having a open dialogue about my child’s wellbeing and progress is critical. So here are some questions I would ask:
1. What can I expect in terms of communication with the coaches about my child: can we text? Can we have monthly / quarterly in-person meetings?
2. What’s your strategy about dealing with set backs, whether injury, mental issues, vacation time, growth spurts.
3. What are your thoughts about the best way to motivate a gymnast? What do you think the challenges are in motivating a gymnast?
4. What is your plan for my child for the next few years, assuming everything does to plan? How will we communicate if things change?
5. What are your expectations regarding hours and finances for the next year or so? What is my family’s commitment? When do you review and change practice and financials, and how is that communicated?
6. How do you think an ideal parent should participate in a gymnast’s work? Do you mind us attending practice? How should a parent respond to a bad day? How do you want me to communicate thoughts or concerns?
I would listen for things that indicate a child centered approach, and openness to parent communication (though it is reasonable and sensible to place limits on that - like don’t text us, but you can set up meetings). I wouldn’t have my kid at a gym where they said they didn’t want parents to watch practice (though it’s ok to say that it isn’t always helpful to have parents attend every practice). I would listen carefully to the answer to questions about coaching through set backs. Every kid has them, and you need to know they will support and encourage your child if there is an injury or another kind of set back. I would listen carefully to their thoughts about dealing with mental blocks and motivation. Do they seem like they have thought about the best strategies to use? Or do they seem like they will be intolerant of these normal experiences.
Are they straightforward, professional and organized about financial and time commitments?
LOL!!!!!
