Congratulations and thank you for joining the Dodge Grand Caravan Kids Team.

Founded in 2006, the Dodge Caravan Kids program is a joint effort between participating amateur hockey organizations throughout the country in partnership with Chrysler Canada and Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram retailers. The program aims to keep the cost of playing hockey down for families, by providing sponsorship funding to novice house league teams. Since the program started, more than 100,000 kids have worn a "Dodge Caravan Kids" jersey.

The Dodge Caravan Kids program is our way of helping young boys and girls enjoy the great game of hockey. In addition to the physical fitness and health benefits, players will learn valuable life skills including leadership, dedication, teamwork, respect, sportsmanship, perseverance and most importantly how to have fun! It's also fitting that Canada's favourite minivan is making it easier for kids to enjoy Canada's favourite sport.

Have a great season. We'll see you down the road.

Reid Bigland
President and CEO, Chrysler Canada

TIPS

FOR PARENTS

Shout encouragement, whisper constructive criticism.
When you consider the playing surface, equipment and skills involved, ice hockey is perhaps the most complicated amateur sport out there. It's also one of the most enjoyable with more young boys and girls participating every year. As parents, it's important to build a positive foundation of confidence and fun, particularly at this age. Take every opportunity to point out and reinforce good things: "That was great the way you tried to pass to Johnny... or You were really skating fast today!" Put a positive spin on "opportunities for improvement" too: "Every time you shoot on the net, there's a chance the puck will go in, so try to shoot a little more."... or "Passing the puck to a teammate is the fastest way to move down to the other team's end. Next week, let's try to look up and if one of your players is open, pass them the puck and see what happens."

FOR KIDS

Be a team player.
Hockey is a team sport. The players who help make a goal possible are just as important as the one who puts the puck in the net. Don't try to do everything yourself, pass the puck to teammates who are open and they'll do the same for you when they have a chance. You'll be surprised how much fun it is when everybody works together as a team.

It's okay to lose.
Think of your favourite NHL hockey team or player. I bet you can remember them losing games lots of times. When you're a Caravan Hockey Kid, the only thing that matters is having fun. Whether it's a practice or a game, just try your best and have fun. Every time you play, you'll get a little better and before you know it you'll be playing better than you ever thought you could.

TRAVELLING TIPS

Sometimes it seems like getting players, siblings and gear to the arena on time can be more stressful than sudden death overtime in a championship game. Well, the folks at Dodge Caravan Kids have years of 'Hockey Parent' experience between them. So we pulled together some time proven tips to share with our fellow Hockey Moms and Dads. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned veteran, we hope these hints and suggestions will help make every trip a smooth and enjoyable one for all.

AROUND THE CITY

Double check ice times and arenas before heading out.
Leave adequate time for driving and parking, particularly if you're not familiar with the area or the weather is poor.
For younger players, consider dressing in hockey equipment at home, leaving only skates, helmet and gloves to be put on in the dressing room. This can be a great time saver, especially for those early morning ice times.
Bring a drink. A cool, healthy drink after a game or practice really hits the spot and is essential for adequate rehydration.
Snacks and portable activities are a good idea for younger siblings who usually aren't as intent on watching big brother or sister quite as closely as you for the full hour.

OUT OF TOWN ROAD TRIP

Bring some healthy snacks and drinks for the ride.
If your vehicle has a DVD player, bring along some movies or games to help entertain younger passengers during the ride.
Pillows and blankets can help with a nap.
Bring your child's game schedule and dressing room assignments if you have them.
If you are staying at hotel, bring your confirmation documents along with check-in and check-out times. Prior to booking the room, find out how many people can stay in a room and if you require a cot.

PRE-TRIP VEHICLE CHECK-UP

Fill up with gasoline the day before your trip.
Get your vehicle's oil changed before you hit the road. While the hood is up, inspect the belts, hoses, wiper blades, coolant level and battery. The easiest way feel confident before you hit the road: get a Peace of mind inspection at Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge Service. They'll check all these items and more and give you a written report.
Prepare an emergency kit for your vehicle including items such as: a flashlight, flares ,first-aid kit, jumper cables, a mat or blanket, gloves, paper towels, extra washer fluid, non-perishable food, water and a few basic tools.
Load smart. Pack cargo evenly throughout and don't pack items so high that they block your vision out the rear window.
Avoid fatigue. Get a good night's rest before spending a long time behind the wheel.