youth sports

Why The Mental Game is as Important as Talent For Young Athletes

Youth Sports Psychology

The Importance of a Good Mental Game Talent is over-rated in youth sports. That’s the word from Kirk Mango, a youth sports coach, national champion, three-time All-American and Hall of Fame athlete. As a young athlete, Mango didn’t stand out as being especially talented, he says. But he was passionate … Read Sport Psychology Tip

Why Kids’ Self-Confidence Suffers When Sports Parents Make Comparisons

Youth Sports Psychology

Parents Comparing Sports Kids Sports parents, you need to stop making comparisons. Only then will your kids stop taking part in this confidence-busting activity. Ah, but it’s so tempting to chat with your kids, spouse and neighbors about how Johnny’s free-throw shot is a little crooked compared to your kids’ … Read Sport Psychology Tip

When Young Athletes Drop Out of Sport Due to Bullying

Youth Sports Psychology

Feeling Unsafe in Youth Sports Steve, a sports dad and coach, recently called us to tell us about the worst thing that can happen to a talented young athlete, from a mental-game perspective. A 14-year-old hockey goalie was offered a position on a high-level team in a different state, and … Read Sport Psychology Tip

Helping Young Athletes Overcome Fear of Failure

Youth Sports Psychology

Sports Kids And Comfort Zones Sports mom Jennifer says her 11-year-old baseball player hates making mistakes, doesn’t want to disappoint people, and likes to stay in his comfort zone. His coaches have only kind words for the boy and don’t seem to recognize his challenges. Why? Because he’s a classic … Read Sport Psychology Tip

Instilling Confidence When Kids Fear Failure [Podcast]

Ultimate Sports Parent Podcast

Comfort Zones in Youth Sports As part of Kids’ Sports Psychology’s Sports Parents’ Coach audio series, Lisa Cohn and Dr. Patrick Cohn give advice to Jennifer, the mother of an 11-year-old baseball player who is a perfectionist. Jennifer says that her son is afraid of failing and tends to stay … Read Sport Psychology Tip

Committed, Balanced Sports Parents [Podcast]

Ultimate Sports Parent Podcast

Committed Sports Parents Ultimate Sports Parent Radio interviews Dave Dupont, CEO of TeamSnap, a sports parent and coach about how to be a committed, balanced sports parent. In this week’s Ultimate Sports Parents podcast: Dunpont talks with Dr. Cohn about the commitment in sports. * Download the Committed, Balanced Sports Parents … Read Sport Psychology Tip