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Every sports fan, regardless of their age, would agree that attending a live game is one of the best experiences they’ve had the opportunity to witness. What’s more, many of them vividly remember the first time they’ve got the chance to see their favorite team perform live, and many even agree that this is precisely what made them fall in love with the team and the sport in the first place.

Considering this, it’s only natural that, as a sports fan, you wish to share the same experience and excitement with your kids, by taking them to their first live game. But before you scoop up your little ones, deck them out in your favorite team’s jerseys and expose them to a sea of cheering fans, you will need to do some preparations first. Of course, you will first need to find tickets for Timberwolves at best price and ensure that you check whether or not your kids are required to get their own, or can they attend the game for free.

After the tickets are secured, it’s time to start with planning and prep.

Planning ahead makes for a smooth live game experience

Prior to heading to the stadium, you need to create a detailed plan that will enable you to ensure everything goes super smoothly. The plan needs to include:

• Purchasing tickets: As mentioned, you need to make sure you secure the tickets before the event. This way you will avoid overpaying or the disappointment of not being able to purchase any in case they all got sold out.
• Checking the weather forecast: Checking the forecast will not only enable you to dress appropriately, but it will also help you decide whether or not you need to bring some extra layers of clothing, an umbrella or any sort of sun protective gear. This is crucial when your kids are concerned, as you want their first live game experience to be the most comfortable one.
• Packing essentials: Bring essentials such as sunscreen, hats, sunglasses and water bottles to keep your kids protected and hydrated throughout the game. Additionally, if your kids are still wearing diapers, you simply can’t forget to bring the diaper bag as well.
• Planning transportation: In the end, make sure you plan out the best route to take that will allow you to avoid any traffic jams and preferably arrive at your target destination a bit early, so that you can comfortably find your seats and avoid a huge crowd.

Preparing your kids for the excitement and noise of a live game

Although super fun for adults, attending a live game can easily become overwhelming for young children. This is especially true if you consider all the loud noises and enthusiastic fans they’ll be surrounded with.

That’s why it’s really important you talk to your children and try to explain to them what to expect. If your kids are not too young, you can even try to explain to them the rules of the game, which will help them understand the entire experience better. Moreover, you can even play some clips of various prior games, so that they can see how thighs will look on the stadium. Point out the cheering fans, the players and the excitement everyone is experiencing to only further build up the anticipation.

And if you know that your kids are somewhat noise-sensitive and can easily get overstimulated by loud sounds, you can even consider getting some noise-canceling headphones or earbuds, which will still enable them to enjoy seeing the game live without getting overwhelmed.

Teach your kids about sportsmanship and fan etiquette

Attending a live game won’t only give your kids the opportunity to cheer the team on, but it will also present you with the opportunity to teach them more about sportsmanship and fan etiquette. Here are some pointers that will help you along the way:

• Make sure you lead by example: Show your kids how to be a good sport by displaying good sportsmanship yourself. Avoid negative comments or behavior towards the opposing team or fans.
• Explain the rules of fan etiquette: Teach your kids about the importance of respecting other fans, players and officials. Encourage them to cheer for their team without being disrespectful or disruptive.
• Encourage positive interactions: Motivate your kids to engage in positive interactions with other fans. High-fiving, cheering together and sharing the excitement will enhance their overall experience, by making them feel like a part of a much bigger whole.
• Discuss the outcome: Win or lose, it’s important to discuss the outcome of the game with your kids. Teach them to be gracious winners and to handle defeat with dignity and respect.

Ideas for pre and post-game activities

It’s important to remember that attending a live game is not just about the sport or the game itself. Instead, it’s also about creating lasting memories with your kids by planning out some fun pre and post-game activities you can enjoy together. Here are just some fun ideas:

• If allowed, consider tailgating before the game. Pack a picnic, play games and enjoy the pre-game atmosphere with your kids and fellow fans.
• Check if there are opportunities for your kids to meet the players or get autographs before or after the game.
• After the game, take the time to discuss the highlights and favorite moments with your kids. Ask them about their favorite plays, players or interactions with other fans.
• Collect ticket stubs, photos and other memorabilia from the game to create a scrapbook with your kids. This will serve as a tangible reminder of the special day you spent together.

Attending a live game with your kids for the first time can be a thrilling experience if you ensure that you plan ahead, prepare your kids for the excitement and noise, teach them about sportsmanship and fan etiquette, and create an atmosphere that will only make them even more exciting about the whole experience. Once you take care of all of this, grab your jerseys, cheer on your team and make memories that will last a lifetime.