Sports Parenting

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

Helping Young Athletes Follow Their Dreams in Sports

When Athletes Worry About Being Judged

Dealing With Others Jealousy How do you help young athletes whose dreams in sports are undermined by others’ jealousy? In the case of Lela’s son, Frank, it’s a big challenge. Frank is a high school student and Olympic-caliber athlete in track. He is ranked nationally for his event and age group. … Read Sport Psychology Tip

When Positive Encouragement Backfires in Young Athletes

Youth Sports Psychology

How To Handle Positive Encouragement Hi, Dr. Cohn here from The Ultimate Sports Parent. This past weekend I took my 9-year-old daughter to play her 4th tennis tournament as a rookie. She played two matches total. She lost the first match, but stayed very composed. Afterward, I did everything by … Read Sport Psychology Tip

Negative Feedback: A Confidence Buster for Young Athletes

How to Help Sports Kids Overcome Pressure in Sports

By Lisa Cohn and Dr. Patrick Cohn Mike, a sports dad to an 11-year-old who plays high-level baseball, is worried about his son’s confidence. Jim’s baseball coach often singles Jim out for making mistakes. As a result, the kids on the team also comment when Jim makes mistakes. Mike says … Read Sport Psychology Tip