Kids sports psychology articles for sports parents, young athletes, and team coaches to improve and learn mental game performance and consistency.
What Causes Choking? Why do some young athletes choke while other athletes rise to the occasion? Most young athletes don’t like to hear the word “choking,” let alone admit that they choke. Yet, some athletes believe they “always choke” when the pressure is on. Choking generally results from kids who … Read Sport Psychology Tip
Is a Success Formula Necessary? A success formula is like a recipe or set of instructions describing how to successfully and consistently create something. For example, if your young athlete’s goal is to prepare at an elite level, what do they need to add to the mix that produces high-level … Read Sport Psychology Tip
Solving Problems as an Athlete Competitive sports have their fair share of ups and downs, and most players experience highs and lows during their career. When players are at a low point, they sometimes feel like they are the only ones who experience tough times. For example, if your young … Read Sport Psychology Tip
How Self-Talk Will Change Your Game Sports kids can determine if self-talk influences their performance by thinking of competitions when they fell apart. What were their thoughts before spiraling downward? Did they mentally beat themselves up over a mistake or tell themselves they have no talent? Did they talk themselves … Read Sport Psychology Tip
How to Handle Criticism How has negative criticism affected your young athlete’s confidence in past athletic competitions? Even though criticism can be helpful, it is also hurtful. Negative criticism can cause kids to doubt their abilities. It can destroy their confidence. Negative comments from media, parents, teammates, coaches and fans … Read Sport Psychology Tip
Are Losses Devastating or motivating? This is a question sports kids should ask themselves. Some athletes allow one defeat, especially if the competition was significantly important to them, to take the wind out of their sails. They believe the possibility of another defeat is not worth the long hours of … Read Sport Psychology Tip