Sports Parenting

Sports parenting and youth sports psychology articles for sports parents of young athletes to improve mental game and performance in kids

Boosting Confidence in the Face of Little Playing Time

Youth Sports Psychology

Playing Time And It’s Influence on Sports Kids What do you do when your sports kids suddenly get less playing time? Or if they never got much to begin with? If it hurts their confidence—and often it will–you can take concrete steps to boost your kids’ mental game. “Three of … Read Sport Psychology Tip

Why Talent is Over-rated in Youth Sports [Podcast]

Ultimate Sports Parent Podcast

Strong Mental Game Skill in Youth Sports Ultimate Sports Parent Radio interviews Kirk Mango, a coach, national champion, 3-Time All-American, Hall of Fame Athlete and writer working on a book, “Becoming A True Champion” about why talent is over-rated. In this week’s Ultimate Sports Parent podcast: Mango talks about why … Read Sport Psychology Tip

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

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