The mental game is critical to sports–and improving mental health can boost both kids’ mental game and performance. That’s the word from Laura Erickson-Schroth, chief medical officer at The Jed Foundation, which works in schools and sports organizations to help kids improve their mental health. Video Mental Coaching from Anywhere … Read Sport Psychology Tip
Kids and teens say they lack connections with adults in their schools, says Paul Caccamo, CEO and founder, Up2Us, a coach training program. Youth coaches can fill in the gap and build resilience, improved focus and self-esteem in young athletes, he says. To meet that goal, Up2Us partners with schools … Read Sport Psychology Tip
Helping Young Athletes Get Over Mistakes For baseball players, making mistakes is the biggest challenge, says Josh Thole, former catcher for the New York Mets and Toronto Blue Jays. Working with the makers of a new app, Players Way, he’s on a mission to help keep youth baseball players in … Read Sport Psychology Tip
Letting Kids Decide What Sports They Want to Play What are the Habits of Supportive Sports Parents? To be a supportive sports parent, you first have to ensure your kids are having fun. Second, you should help ensure they are prepared for practices and games, says Sharkie Zartman, a college … Read Sport Psychology Tip
Many young athletes experience trouble reading social cues from coaches and peers, says Caroline Maguire, author of “Why Will No One Play with Me?” and a professional certified coach who has worked with Olympic and other athletes. This can hurt communication with coaches and peers, make it difficult for kids … Read Sport Psychology Tip
Alex Molden, a former NFL player who is now a motivational speaker, high school football coach and sports parent, says that parents need to be more patient. Too often, they’re too focused on pushing their kids to the top as quickly as possible. “Kids have to find their path,” Molden … Read Sport Psychology Tip