Can I balance my kids' soccer schedule with my work goals?

[chefcharity]

I signed my boys (2yrs and 4 yrs) up for soccer for this fall thinking it started in September. I just received an email from the coach that the first practice is August 5th and the games start on Saturday the 8th. Well.... I had planned on doing about 25 shows in August! I'm half way there. Luckily all my saturday shows start at 2:30 or later and the games are at 10. But I already cannot work Wednesdays because my husband has school and if practices switch to another night of the week, then I'm out that night too! Guess if I don't make it to <i>every practice</i> it isn't a big deal, right?

I don't usually do so many shows, but I was trying to reach a goal this month and next.

Oh, well. I'll figure it out. Thanks for listening.

 

[pampchefsarah]

25 shows in one month!!!! Holy cow, what is your secret?? I feel blessed if I get 3 bookings in one month (yes, I'm working to improve that).

Yes, it's fine if you don't make every practice, or even every game. Just remember, the coaches are not babysitters. If you're unable to drive your kids to practices/games, make sure you find someone reliable and willing to do it for you. Also, for the sake of the coaches, teammates, and especially your boys (as you want to set a good example of teamwork), don't just blow off a practice or game because the timing is inconvenient. Even though they are young, and this is all for fun, there are still people counting on the boys to be there as expected.

This is the voice of experience both as a soccer/softball mom, and a former coach.

 

[chefcharity]

Thanks Sarah! I would never just drop my kids off! Way to paranoid for that! LOL! Their Dad will be there if I am not and I try to teach my kids when we say we are going to do something, we do it. So.... we're in it for the season. Was just feeling a bit overwhelmed for a minute with something else added to my plate for August!

As for all the shows, I don't do it all the time. Actually, it has never happened before. I'm giving it my all this month and next trying to reach the Top 50 challenge. If i don't hit it, what is the worse that happens - I made ALOT of money! I am offering an extra incentive for my host who booked in July and august - a drawing for $100 cash! They'll have about a 1 in 35 chance of winning. Pretty good odds and if I'm making that kind of money, I'm ok with the $100 going out. I've had a good response to this. Then the rest of my year should be set to - not to mention my level 3 disney.

 

[Shawnna]

You are going to love soccer!! My 2 oldest kids played when they were in grade school. They loved it. At that time my oldest played soccer, baseball and basketball so he played all year. My daughter played soccer one year and softball one year and decided she didn't softball, but soccer is only for the younger kids in our area. My middle child places basketball and runs track...too old for soccer. But, my fav sport to watch is basketball and soccer is next.

Don't worry if you can't make all practices...the kids understand that. Just cheer them on and make sure they have fun.

 

[3RingChef]

Hi there! I completely understand how frustrating it can be when unexpected conflicts arise, especially when we have important goals to reach. But don't worry, I'm sure you'll be able to figure out a solution that works for you and your family. Maybe you can try scheduling some extra shows on weekdays or Sundays to make up for the ones you'll have to miss on Saturdays. Or if you have a team of consultants, you could also consider asking them to help cover some of your shows. Remember, it's important to prioritize your family and your personal life as well. Good luck with your soccer season and your shows!