Parenting Youth Athletes

Effective Communication

Mother and daughter talking about sports, podcast style.

Strengthen Bonds: The Game Plan Every Parent Needs for Their Young Athlete

Start a weekly podcast-style chat with your child where they can share their thoughts about their training, goals, and how they feel about their progress. Use this time to listen actively and offer encouragement while they talk, so they feel understood and supported.

Parent helping their child create a development plan.

Stand Tall for Your Athlete: How to Advocate with Impact and Respect

Encourage your child to create a personal development plan where they can outline the skills they want to improve, set timelines for achieving them, and identify resources or strategies that can help. This structured approach gives them ownership over their progress and keeps them focused on their journey.

Father and son talking about the best strategies to win the game in hockey.

Decoding Athletic Philosophies: Your Guide to Supporting Young Champions

Encourage your child to visualize their performance before games or practices. Spend a few minutes together discussing what they want to achieve, and have them close their eyes and picture themselves executing their skills successfully. This mental rehearsal can boost their confidence and help them perform better when it counts.

Father and son talking about sports.

Say Goodbye to Miscommunication: Connect with Coaches Like a Pro

Start a weekly podcast-style chat with your child where they can share their thoughts about their training, goals, and how they feel about their progress. Use this time to listen actively and offer encouragement while they talk, so they feel understood and supported.

Father and son talking after a game of hockey.

Navigate the Parent-Coach Conversation with Confidence

Make it a habit to discuss your child’s experiences after each practice or game. Ask open-ended questions like “What did you enjoy most today?” or “What was a challenge you faced?” This will encourage them to share their thoughts and feelings, helping them process their experiences while building a stronger connection with you.