What to do When Sports Kids Don’t Believe in Themselves
For a number of reasons, many sports kids don’t believe in themselves—and that’s bad news for them, their teams and their coaches. Here are just a few causes: They doubt their abilities They’re perfectionists and expect too much Their parents pressure them too much When kids don’t believe in themselves, they hurt their performance and enjoyment of sports. Kymber Veautour, a Top Warner cheer coach who has garnered two national wins, says... [Read More...]
How One Athlete’s Confidence Thrived–With A Little Help
Jane’s 10-year-old son was a talented golfer who fell apart during competitions. Like many perfectionists, he had high expectations and became easily frustrated if he didn’t meet them. How did this young athlete transform his mental game and performance in short six months, even winning a regional tournament in southern Spain? The Answer may surprise you. Read on to find out… Jane’s son’s challenges, Jane says, were twofold.... [Read More...]
Helping Sports Kids Focus on the Present and Improve Concentration
In the popular book, “The Art of Racing in the Rain,” one of the main characters—a racecar driver—talks about the importance of “having no memory” while competing. “Memory is time folding back on itself. To remember is to disengage from the present,” the book says. Here at the Ultimate Sports Parent and Kids’ Sports Psychology, we agree with this idea. Looking back—especially at past mistakes—isn’t... [Read More...]
Overcoming Young Athletes’ Resistance to Mental Training
“How do I get my son to buy into the need for mental training?” one parent asked us recently. “He is an extremely skilled player who lacks confidence but stubbornly is not open to mental training.” Whether young athletes are skilled or unskilled, talented or less talented, they all can benefit from mental training. Yet, a number of obstacles prevent them from embracing it. What does this mean for you as sports parents and coaches? Read on... [Read More...]
Pressure Sports Kids, and They Might Drop Out of Sports Altogether
One of our readers, a caring sports mom, has this confession to make: “I am guilty! I am a frustrated but well-meaning mother who has put pressure to perform on my children.” This is an important realization for this sports mom. She understands that pressure from parents does not help young athletes succeed. In fact, it can cause kids to lose confidence and drop out of sports. Read on, and you’ll discover that’s exactly what’s happening... [Read More...]
