Every child needs that encouraging pat on the back from mum or dad

Whatever you think of the Beckhams, one thing is certain when it comes to their kids they know how to do family.

Last week, David turned up to support his 10-year-old son Cruz who was having a kickabout with his Arsenal Academy teammates in Germany.

Cruz is in Arsenal’s U11s team and his dad frequently appears on the sidelines to encourage his youngest son, who apparently is the most promising footballer of the three Beckham boys.

Like any doting dad, David was there with an encouraging pat on the back for his lad and a handy bottle of water to cool him down.

Romeo, 12, is a promising young tennis star and mum and dad are always on hand to cheer him on.

It’s what ordinary parents do.

In the next few weeks, all over the country, mums, dad and grandparents will be on the sidelines at school sports day to give support.

It doesn’t matter if your child is a bit slow in the relay or drops the egg in the egg-and-spoon race, they’re counting on you turning up to yell your encouragement.

For umpteen years, men have stood in muddy football fields on Saturday mornings in all weathers to watch their sons play football for their school, amateur club or local Boys’ Brigade team.

Sometimes I’m sure the players feel embarrassed by the ‘advice’ from the touchline, but all the other enthusiastic dads are doing exactly the same.

Children need the support of the adults in their life.

They might act too cool for school among their friends, but there is something very reassuring in knowing that mum, dad, granny and grandpa are there rooting for you.

Family togetherness matters in every aspect of life. Very few major sports stars make a success of it without the full-hearted support of their parents who sacrifice time, energy and money to help their child be the best they can be.

It can be a huge sacrifice but good parents will do that to make sure their son or daughter has the opportunity to develop their skills to the best of their ability.

One year ago we witnessed the triumph of so many hopes and dreams at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

Success for hundreds of young people from around the world made it a fantastic event.

And the joy of their families who were there to share the moment with them added to that magic of those unforgettable summer days and nights.

Competition can bring out the best in people.

The important thing is that those taking part know that someone is rooting for them.

Last week, my grandson Adam’s Glasgow school Williamwood Secondary won a national running competition and he was part of the relay team. That’s my boy!

It doesn’t matter if you’re a Beckham or not the pride is the same.