Let’s talk honestly about “keeping up” in youth hockey.

My own son is 6. He’s at the age where he could play in an advanced league or stick with house league — and you know what?

Right now, he just likes hockey for fun. He goes out, skates (not perfectly, but he’ll get there), and when he’s done — he’s done. Some days 45 minutes on ice is plenty, and then we leave on a good note.

That’s the big reminder for all us hockey parents: Focus on your kid, their personality, and their balance—not where everyone else is.

If your child wants more hockey, awesome! If they’re okay with less, that’s great too. Let them leave the ice happy and wanting to come back, instead of pushing them to the point of tears

They’ll find their own passion in their own time. If their path takes them deeper into hockey, wonderful! If not, that’s fine too. Kids will discover what they truly love eventually, and when they do, they’ll thrive.

Our job is to give them space, let them grow, and not force our own dreams onto them.

Don’t worry that your child isn’t “keeping up.” If hockey becomes their passion, they’ll succeed. If they’re not ready yet, let it be. All that matters is that they leave the rink with a positive mindset, excited to return next time.

That’s where real progress starts.