Elite and travel teams can hurt kids’ confidence by setting up a dicey relationship among kids, parents and coaches. That’s the view of Hal Phillips, a former sports parent and youth soccer coach, plus author of Generation Zero: Founding Fathers, Hidden Histories and the Making of Soccer in America. Elite and … Read Sport Psychology Tip
How To Improve Kids’ Self-Confidence One of the biggest challenges young athletes face before a game, parents tell us, is doubt about their abilities. In fact, that’s what we see, too. Just before a game, kids start telling themselves that they’re no good at making three-pointers, that they don’t think … Read Sport Psychology Tip
Positive Thinking in Youth Sports “I can’t make three-pointers.” “I can’t keep that big guy from scoring.” “I can’t score goals with my left foot.” “I can’t” statements hurt kids’ confidence. This is called negative thinking, and it’s a mental game no-no. Lots of kids embrace this kind of thinking … Read Sport Psychology Tip
Instilling Mental Toughness in Sports Kids Parents and coaches, preparing kids mentally for games is one of the best ways you can help them feel ready at game time. Why? Because kids who possess mental toughness often have higher confidence levels and perform better. First of all, understand it’s best … Read Sport Psychology Tip
Sports Kids Who Make Comparisons Parents and coaches, how many times have you heard your kids say, “We’re never going to beat that team! The players are huge.” Or fast. Or tough. The minute your hear this uttered by one of your team members, hold everything and have a heart-to-heart … Read Sport Psychology Tip
Taking Kids’ Sports Skills to Life We all talk about the importance of transferring the skills kids learn in sports to other areas of their lives. But how exactly can we expedite that process? Megan Bartlett, chief program officer for Up2Us—who oversees the training of coaches in sports-based youth development—gave … Read Sport Psychology Tip