Answer: D. Support and encourage their child unconditionally.
One very strong theme that emerged from the swimming study was that parents “…increase the fun in swimming by providing unconditional encouragement and support.” Likewise, the physical presence of a parent at horse shows and interest in the child’s showing efforts, regardless of performance outcomes, will go a long way toward increasing enjoyment at horse shows. To learn more about parenting at the horse show, read the May 2010 e-Tips article “Tips for Horse Show Parents” and watch the archived webcast Parenting Tips at the Horse Show by Karen Waite.