Baseball Parents: Getting Ready For The Season
March is here which means baseball season is about to begin. If this is your child’s first year, you’re ecstatic to see them on the field, watching them progress as they develop their skills and talents. If you’ve already had a couple of seasons under your belt, then you know the list of to-do’s before and during the season. Either way, here are a few items to add to your checklist to ensure a successful first day and season.
Uniforms
Once you’re able to pick up your child’s uniform, it’s suggested that you do so immediately so that you can try it on. Don’t wait until game day to put it on for the first time because if it’s the wrong size, your child will not be comfortable. Uniforms are usually ready for pick up in time for a new one to be ordered, if needed. As a heads up, you should order at least 3 uniforms to use throughout the season so that you have a backup should you need it.
It’s completely normal to get baseball-specific stains such as dirt and grass stains. There are several tips online for getting these stains out and keeping your uniforms clean. There’s one tip that’s not mentioned very much and that is to keep your washing machine clean by using a washing machine cleaner tablet once a month. Since your washer will be working overtime to combat dirt, sweat, and possibly blood stains, you should use a cleaner to keep your washer in the best condition. Especially if your uniforms are one of the most common colors— white.
Keep a bag packed for you and your player
Try to make it a habit of keeping a baseball bag packed for your player so that you’re always prepared. Items that should always remain inside the bag:
- Baseball glove and ball
- First aid kit
- Water bottle
- Sunscreen
- A few dollars for concessions
- A change of clothes for after the game
- Hand sanitizer
Items that you should always keep in your bag as a baseball parent:
- Bug spray
- Sunglasses
- Water bottle
- Cash (for cash-only concessions)
- A blanket for cooler days
- Umbrella
- Cushions for bleacher seats
- Your own snacks and drinks
- Hand sanitizer
If you’ve got a new addition to the family, make sure you keep a baby chest carrier on hand so your baby is not restricted to staying in their stroller or car seat the whole time.
Schedules
Whether it’s easier to hang the team’s schedule on your refrigerator, download an electronic copy to your phone, or take a picture of the hard copy to keep in your camera roll, make sure you’re always staying on top of it. At times, practice and games may be changed due to weather or unforeseen conditions. Make sure you’re always aware of schedule changes whether you choose to be contacted by text or email.
Some teams will have parents take turns bringing snacks for the entire team. If you’re participating, make sure to make notes in the schedule of when it’s your turn so that you can shop ahead.
Carpools are also helpful for parents who have hectic schedules due to work or other sibling schedules. Making a carpool schedule with other team parents can alleviate some of the stress. This is also another note to mark in your schedule.
These basic tips should have you and your player on the way to a successful first day and season. If you want to know more or need extra help, don’t be afraid to ask other veteran team parents or the coach.
Author Bio
Angie is a WAHM and a California native that is now raising her 2 year old son in a city between the mountains of Utah. On her downtime she writes posts about her new role as a mother, wife, and her escapes back to her home state which you can find on her blog at http://lavidamom.com/.
