Sports parenting and youth sports psychology articles for sports parents of young athletes to improve mental game and performance in kids
Helping Kids Focus on The Process Instead of Outcome A young athlete writes: “I want to quit wrestling because I have too much anxiety with the pain and my failure. I have found other hobbies like lifting by myself or with a friend. I just don’t like wrestling and I … Read Sport Psychology Tip
Helping Young Athletes Define Their Self-Concept A sports parent asks: “How do I help my child be more focused on his role on the team and not so worried about disappointing his teammates and others?” It’s common for sports kids to worry about disappointing others. Kids often seek social approval, … Read Sport Psychology Tip
Helping Young Athletes Overcome Negative Beliefs It’s common for young athletes to struggle with doubt and negative thoughts about their performance. They tell themselves that: This type of negative self-talk can be detrimental to your young athletes, and if it isn’t addressed, can lead to mental-game challenges. With each negative … Read Sport Psychology Tip
Helping Young Athletes Unlock Their Performance A sports parent asks: “I have a son who is a junior baseball player. To watch him warm up and practice, he looks the part and has already got some small college offers. He fits your description of a perfectionist and therefore lacks confidence. … Read Sport Psychology Tip
Building Confidence in Youth Sports A sports parent asks: “I hear that it’s important to help kids set goals in sports. I’m not at all sure about how to go about this. Do you have any advice?” Goal setting is essential in and out of sports. A 1979 Harvard study … Read Sport Psychology Tip
Setting Team Goals as a Parent-Coach A sports parent asks: “As a parent and a coach, how should I handle performing both duties simultaneously to help all the kids as much as possible?” Being a coach and parent can breed many issues that you need to be aware of from … Read Sport Psychology Tip