Boxing matches that end in tragedy often share a terrible common factor. History has shown that the cornerman in these bouts often turns out to be the father of the injured boxer. Yet for some reason he doesn't throw in the towel until it's too late.
Outside the ring, the effects of pushing your child too hard are unlikely to be so drastic. But parental ambition can still cause problems if you start piling pressure onto your kids.

"Some kids will start to rebel or self-sabotage when they realise they can't achieve what they're being asked to," says psychologist Ian Wallace. "They may also start thinking their relationship with their dad is based on achievement rather than unconditional love."

So how do you balance your aspirations with being a supportive dad? After all, everyone wants the best for their kids.

SWINGS AND ROUNDABOUTS

The playground should be a place of fun. But that's not the case when pushy parents muscle in to assert their kid's rights in the sandpit. Fathers should instead aim to play a more discreet role while acknowledging the benefits of non-competitive play.
"Stress how great it is to have mates to play and have fun with," says Wallace.

If you must step in to stop a fight, tread carefully. "Don't intervene and rescue your child or blame others," advises Wallace. "Focus on the whole group and say something like, 'Hey, looks like everyone isn't playing nicely, let's all try to be fair and give everyone a turn.' "

BALANCE THE BOOKS

It's natural to want your child to be successful. But agonising over every test score won't make school life much fun.

"Direct kids towards making their best effort rather than just focusing on their grades," says Wallace. "Recognise your child's individual strengths and keep life balance, not just stressing school, but also exercise, social interaction, relaxation and rest."

And don't despair if your kid isn't an academic hotshot. "Many successful people didn't achieve highly at school exams," says Wallace. "Think of Kerry Packer and Richard Branson."

STAY ONSIDE

Your dodgy knee may have wrecked your deluded hopes of playing top-flight footy. But don't try to live out your sporting dreams through your kids.

"Never be a sideline critic or 'ugly parent', abusing referees and screaming at players," says Wallace. "You should also leave coaching to the team coaches - don't over-analyse or critique in the car."

If you want your kids to enjoy exercise then ditch the win-at-all-costs mentality. "Always praise good efforts and acknowledge improvement wherever you can," advises Wallace.

WORKING IT OUT

Expecting your son or daughter to rocket up the career ladder as soon as they've started their first apprenticeship is simply unrealistic. Joining the workforce is a major life transition. "Disclose your own struggles getting used to work and making novice mistakes," says Wallace. "Reassure your kids that everyone struggles at first."

Look out for common problems like fatigue and performance fears. "Don't lecture or preach," warns Wallace. "Listen first and see where you can help."