How to help your child perform freely
Find out what you as a parent can do to help your kid trust in their ability.
My name is Ann Zaprazny, and I help parents and athletes succeed in sports and life.
Your time watching and supporting your child participate in sports will fly by. Depending on the age(s) of your child(ren), you may not believe it.
As a parent of three children - the time will fly by.
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Athlete Journal
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Athlete Mental Training
On-demand video-based mental performance training and exercises.
Helping your child perform freely and trust in their abilities
Webster's dictionary defines trust as the belief that someone or something is reliable, good, honest, effective, etc.
Athletes perform best when they trust in their abilities. When athletes trust, they have a deep-rooted belief in their ability.
As parents, we want our children to trust in their abilities, trust that they are prepared, and trust that they are ready to compete.
Are your actions adversely impacting your child's ability to perform freely?
Circle the statements that apply to you or your spouse or other significant family members regarding your family's youth athlete(s).
1) Do you overcoach your child before or during competition?
2) Do you remind your child of WHAT NOT TO DO?
3) Do you remind your child of past mistakes?
4) Do you compare your child's performance to other athletes?
5) Do you put unrealistic expectations on your child?
6) Do you remind your child not to embarrass you or themselves with their
performance?
7) During the competition, does your body language convey disappointment or frustration?
8) Do you focus on the outcome (winning, score, points, time improvement) vs. effort?
Reflect on the statements that are true for you.
Unfortunately, well-meaning parents can unknowingly undermine their child's confidence. How can you adjust your behavior?
How to help your child perform their best.
1) If you circled any of the items 1 through 8 above, avoid repeating them before competition or practice. Work to change your behavior.
2) Encourage your child to have fun, show good sportsmanship, be a good teammate, and give maximum effort.
3) Ask your child what all the reasons you have to trust in your skills are?
4) Ask your child to describe one of their best competitions.
5) Help your child recognize that even the best athletes in the world make mistakes. Compete through them.
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