4 Things to Try When Players Want to Quit a Sport – Effective Parenting
It is never good to force young athletes to continue playing a sport when they feel as though they don’t want to or for them to continue only because you, the parent, wants them to continue. However, it never hurts to try a few last ditch effective parenting efforts to see if their decision will change.
1. See if they might attend an offseason, quality camp – a good program will stress instruction and fun, which are the keys for youth sports.
2. Look for a great, respected coach in the area – this can revitalize a players interest.
3. Tell young player to wait till the following season to decide – time away often allows kids the opportunity to realize that they will miss playing.
4. See if athlete is willing to work with a professional coach for a spell before the next season. Knowledge learned along with confidence gained can turn attitude around. Good fundamental coaches should provide this knowledge and confidence.

Post from: Positive Parenting in Sports - Raising an Athlete

Positive Sports Tip of the Day

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Maintaining Balance in the Family
Parents should always be mindful of the effects of having an accomplished athlete in the family. Often, so much attention is given to the star athlete that other kids in the family begin to detest the situation. Making the other kids trudge around to every game and tournament can create unhappiness and negative feelings. Parents should keep balance in their treatment of all family members and not devote all their time and attention to the star athlete. Missing games from time to time and doing things with other kids is important.

Post from: Positive Parenting in Sports - Raising an Athlete

Positive Sports Tip of the Day

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1. The Travel Ball Conundrum Image by Getty Images via Daylife Whether a child...
2. ABC’s of Positive Parenting in Sports – N Negativity – First word that comes to mind when I...
3. “Star Treatment” Jack’s Article for Press Enterprise – Southern Californiahttp://blogs.pe.com/moms/2009/10/be-careful-of-the-star-treatme.html Post...
4. ABC’s of Positive Parenting in Sports – Burnout – Parenting Advice   Burnout – Another common word when talking about yout...
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Sport Parents Tip – Stay Alert
Of course, it is not good for parents to become over involved in their kids sports career to the point where they ruin the fun for their kid. However, parents of kids under the age of 12, should remain observant of the things that their coaches are teaching their young athletes. Parents, who gain an understanding of the correct way to perform athletic skills, can be a help to their sons and daughters when practicing with them or when analyzing their performance.  Positive reinforcement of the techniques, said in a non-threatening way to kids can be a great help when their coaches are not around. With this thought, parents should stay attentive to what “good, respected coaches are teaching their kids and then reinforce those things in the future. Parents should ask coaches for clarification of the things they don’t understand – if parents are attending their child’s game or practice anyway, they may as wall treat it as a learning experience. As has been said, “A little bit of knowledge is a dangerous thing.”

Post from: Positive Parenting in Sports - Raising an Athlete

Positive Sports Tip of the Day

Positive parenting posts:

1. Developing Coachable Players Image by Getty Images via Daylife Often when working with...
2. The Travel Ball Conundrum Image by Getty Images via Daylife Whether a child...
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5. ABC’s of Positive Parenting in Sports Coaching – V Parenting Advice Variety,Victory,Voice,View - There is no one word...

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Optimism
In my last post I mentioned that one cannot simply give young athletes confidence but they can give them hope. In my book Raising an Athlete I write a great deal about how athletes confidence comes and goes but good coaches are continually trying to develop optimistic kids. Good coaches and parents have a knack for keeping sports success and failure in perspective so that, whether kids have success or not, they feel good about themselves. Parents and coaches can achieve this optimistic attitude by stressing effort over results, and keeping expectations realistic. “You will get em next time” is one of the best things a coach can say to a young player.

Post from: Positive Parenting in Sports - Raising an Athlete

Positive Sports Tip of the Day

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1. Raising an Athlete – Book Excerpt      Another common concern parents have is that their child...
2. ABC’s of Positive Parenting in Sports – O Optimism – One of my favorite words and concepts that...
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4. It’s All About “Perspective” – Parenting Advice From Jack’s blog at the Press Enterprise – Southern California...
5. ABC’s of Positive Parenting in Sports – S Success – The old saying “nothing succeeds like success” does...

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Burnout
There are many signs of athletic burnout that parents should watch for when raising an athlete. Burnout usually occurs from one of three things. 1. Over-play – too much of one sport, games and practice combined. 2. Over-sport – trying to play too many sports at one time. 3. Over-expecting – when expectations are too high, either from others or self, players can become burned out trying to reach the unreachable. Signs to watch for – easily angered player, inattentive player, non-respectful player, very unmotivated – and these are occurring when the player never showed these tendencies before.

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• Burned Out? So Are Your Kids (well.blogs.nytimes.com)

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Positive Parenting (Coaching) Tip of the Day

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Sleep on It
When parents feel disappointment over their child’s effort level or practice habits, it is a good idea to wait to tell them the next day. This may lead to a sleepless night for the parent, but not to a bunch of sleepless nights because you say the wrong thing immediately. Giving yourself time to say something with the correct words and with the proper emotion will make everyone (kids and parents) feel better in the long run. 

Post from: Positive Parenting in Sports - Raising an Athlete

Positive Parenting (Coaching) Tip of Day

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I have been keeping up with Luann on her training for fun blog – even though I am a guy, of course – but recognize the importance of what she believes in. Parents, in my opinion, should not miss out on doing these type things when their kids are young – otherwise, parents often look back when their kids are teenagers and wonder why they and their kids have nothing in common or why their kids turn to their peers for advice more than they turn to mom and dad. Here is a review of my book that she did but be sure and check out all her writing.
http://www.trainingforfun.com/book-review-raising-an-athlete-by-jack-perconte/
See more at www.trainingforfun.com

Post from: Positive Parenting in Sports - Raising an Athlete

Training for Fun – Great Blog for Moms

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1. Positive Sports Tip of the Day Image by Beniamino Baj via Flickr Optimism In my...
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Travel Ball Conundrum

Whether a child should play travel ball in a particular sport or not and at what age to begin playing is often a tough call for parents. In my latest book Raising an Athlete, I spend a whole chapter discussing this dilemma. There are four key things that can help determine when a kid should play travel ball. The importance of each factor is a little different for each family based on their particular situation.
1. The child’s interest level, not just the parents interest.
2. The coach they would play for – good caoches are priceless for a players life and sport development.
3. The player’s skill level – putting a player in a level they are not ready for is the quickest way to have them want to discontinue playing.
4. Time commitment – meeting the demands of much more playing can be tough to balance while having kids stay involved in other activities, including non-sport related ones.

Post from: Positive Parenting in Sports - Raising an Athlete

The Travel Ball Conundrum

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Previously, I had written about my favorite word when talking to athletes was “we.” It gives off the feeling to youth that all (parents, athletes and players) are in it together and that the athlete does not have to figure it out or go it alone on their journey to be as good as they can be. That brings me to my least favorite word that people use sometimes when speaking to athletes - embarrass. “You embarrassed me out there” or “that was embarrassing the way you played” or “You should be embarrassed with that performance.”  All of those statements only serve to demean athletes and give the impression that the athlete is playing for the “sayer” of the statement. Kids should be encouraged to play for themselves, the team and for the love and fun of sport, not necessarily to please their parents or coaches. Of course, the by product of parents and coaches who are encourraging and positive is that players also play to please the adults too. In this way, all benefit and the word embarrass will not be part of youth sports. 

Post from: Positive Parenting in Sports - Raising an Athlete

One Word Never to Use with Young Athletes – Keys to Successful Parenting

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1. My Favorite Positive Parenting Word? Image via Wikipedia by Former Major Leaguer Jack Perconte...
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Coachable Players

Often when working with athletes I will sense a reluctance in some to try what I suggest. They may even blurt out, “My dad told me to do it another way,” or “My coach told me to do this” or even “My friend says this works for him.” I usually respond with “Give this way a try and we will find what works best.” Along the same lines, parents often ask what I recommend when two different coaches are teaching two different things. I tell them to tell their son or daughter that, ”Everything is worth a try so try what each coach suggests and go with what works. Have your child nod in agreement even if they know it is different from what another coach is teaching.” The point of this post is that athletes should not get in the habit of not listening to or trying what each coach suggests. That would be a great way of getting on the bad side of a coach and/or getting labeled as an uncoachable player. Coaches like to think they have the answers and that they know more than the player’s parents.  If players act like the coach is not correct, it definitely gives coaches a bad impression of that player. This often leads to bad consequences for these players resulting in a) the coach proceeds to ignore the player from then on b) it affects the player’s playing time c) the player gets cut from the team or doesn’t make the team. This situation is a great teaching moment for parents and gives your son or daughter the best chance of keeping a “coachable player” reputation, which is important for players looking to advance into high school baseball or beyond.

Post from: Positive Parenting in Sports - Raising an Athlete

Developing Coachable Players

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1. Sports Parenting Tips – Developing a Good Work Ethic Image by charissa1066 via Flickr     I have received...
2. Parenting Practice for Sports Parents Image by bowbrick via Flickr Good article at http://www.zikkir.com/index/109247 -...
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A great way to develop enthusiam and love for a sport is to go to upper level games in that sport. This may seem obvious but the trick is to follow it up with some action. Going to professional games is great and creates enthusiasm, but it may not create a love for the sport. Love develops when kids have the opportunity to try what they observe. That is why I endorse taking kids to local high school and college games where they can feel the excitement of the experience but at the same time be able to take out some equipment and play that sport after watching for a period. There is often some room where parents and kids can go, adjacent to the fields, where they can play awhile. The ability to follow up the viewing with some play creates a deeper feeling in the young athlete for that sport.

Post from: Positive Parenting in Sports - Raising an Athlete

Creating Enthusiasm in Athletes

Positive parenting posts:

1. Love of Sport Image via Wikipedia I often encounter kids that play...
2. ABC’s of Positive Parenting in Sports – L Love of the Game – Love is the first...
3. ABC”s of Positive Parenting in Sports Coaching – Z ZEAL – Finally made it to the end of the...
4. ABC’s of Positive Parenting in Sports – Burnout – Parenting Advice   Burnout – Another common word when talking about yout...
5. Positive Parenting in Sports – New Year’s Resolutions Following are a few new year’s resolutions for parents for...

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Good article at http://www.zikkir.com/index/109247 - Marye and I agree that parenting can be difficult and no where is that more evident than dealing with all the emotions that go into watching our kids play sports. We love our children so much and want to help them so much that often these factors get in the way of being the best parent at these moments. As she suggests in the article, parents should practice parenting – I know this seems weird but it is true. A good way to start is with my rule of 3.
When player makes mistakes count to 3 before saying anything.
When player has a tough game wait 3 hours before talking about game.
When player wants to quit a sport – tell them to wait 3 days to see if feeling change.
    Obviously, you can make this the rule of 4,5, whatever but the point is that a little time before reacting avoids impulsive, regrettable behavior that may hurt feelings between parent and athlete.

Post from: Positive Parenting in Sports - Raising an Athlete

Parenting Practice for Sports Parents

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1. Positive Sports Tip of the Day Image by chemisti via Flickr 4 Things to Try...
2. ABC’s of Positive Parenting in Sports – P Patience & Perspective Now we are talking – there are...
3. Positive Parenting (Coaching) Tip of Day Image by Spree2010 via Flickr Sleep on It When...
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Parents don’t have to give a big speech to inspire their kids and giving one is one of the best ways to alienate kids anyway. Giving short inpirational messages though at the appropriate time is “priceless” as the saying goes. Kids in sports and life encounter many situations that can disappoint and discourage them so providing little inpirational words can help them deal with those situations.
    Just recently, I had to throw the famous saying “Where there’s a will there’s a way” at one of my kids after they had to maneuver to get through a tough situation. Looking up inspirational quotes, or making some up yourself is suggested for parents to be ready for times when their athletes have to overcome adversity. Some of my favorites include “no fear,” “negativity rarely if ever helps” and “you will get through this and be stronger for it.” Once again, they are not totally original but come in handy for youth sports. 

Post from: Positive Parenting in Sports - Raising an Athlete

Providing Inspiration

Positive parenting posts:

1. ABC’s of Positive Parenting in Sports – N Negativity – First word that comes to mind when I...
2. ABC”s of Positive Parenting in Sports Coaching – Z ZEAL – Finally made it to the end of the...
3. ABC’s of Positive Parenting – M   Motivation – The first word that comes to mind...
4. ABC’s of Positive Parenting in Sports Coaching – U Understanding - ”I understand that just because a skill is easy...
5. ABC’s of Positive Parenting in Sports – Burnout – Parenting Advice   Burnout – Another common word when talking about yout...

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Practicing Together - Priceless

Following are a few new year’s resolutions for parents for “being there” for their kids:
1. Find an safe area around house where kids can practice their favorite sport.
2. Practice with them when they ask – find the time.
3. Make it fun – set up little contests, tournaments if possible.
4. Point out fundamentals in a positive manner but do not dwell on them.
5. Film child and watch it sometime – put up on big screen if can – kids love watching themselves. Evaluate fundamentals only if child wants you to and you have expertise to do so.
6. Watch inspirational sports movies occasionally with kids.

Post from: Positive Parenting in Sports - Raising an Athlete

Positive Parenting in Sports – New Year’s Resolutions

Positive parenting posts:

1. Positive Sports Tip of the Day Image via Wikipedia Fun Sports Practice Ideas Sometimes the...
2. Love of Sport Image via Wikipedia I often encounter kids that play...
3. Making Sports Fun by Jack Perconte Image via Wikipedia Parents often become concerned because their...
4. ABC’s of Positive Parenting in Sports – L Love of the Game – Love is the first...
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by Former Major Leaguer Jack Perconte
    I have read where the word “You” is the most empowering word in the English language and the best word to use to inspire someone. “You can do it,” “You are the best” and “I believe in you”  are great examples of support to youth. However, it is very easy to use the “you” word  negatively like, “You will never be any good doing it like that,” “You have to practice, more” and “You embarrass me” and so on. Used in this manner the you word becomes a drag on kids desire to play sports.
    My favorite word when it comes to working with athletes is “We.” “Don’t worry about it, we will figure it out,” “We will work on it” and “We can do better next time” are positive statements to kids, giving them the understanding that you and your kids are in it together. Saying things with we is much more comforting and inspiring to young athletes.  Parents who use “we” when addressing their kids may see a positive change in their kids practice habits and sports performance.

Post from: Positive Parenting in Sports - Raising an Athlete

My Favorite Positive Parenting Word?

Positive parenting posts:

1. One Word Never to Use with Young Athletes – Keys to Successful Parenting Image by thejesse via Flickr Previously, I had written...
2. ABC’s of Positive Parenting in Sports – O Optimism – One of my favorite words and concepts that...
3. Positive Parenting in Sports – New Year’s Resolutions Following are a few new year’s resolutions for parents for...
4. ABC’s of Positive Parenting – M   Motivation – The first word that comes to mind...
5. 5 Keys to Success in Sports Following are parenting tips to help bring out the best...

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Preparing to Aim Straight

Now is a good time to think about your kid’s sports schedules for next season so that your young athlete is prepared for each sport they may play. It is especially good to be aware of any sport that may require a tryout, especially as kids get ready for high school and travel team tryouts. Tryouts have a tendency to be done over a short period maybe for as little as a one day tryout. It is very difficult for an athlete to go out “cold turkey” (without a few weeks of practice) and make a competitive team. The exception of course is the ahtlete who has already established a name for themself in that sport or one who is a family friend of the coach. It is additionally important to be physically ready for the particular sport to avoid an early season injury at the tryout. For example, a baseball player whose arem is not in shape will be expected to show his stuff at the tryout and can easily hurt their arm at a tryout.
    Parents should find out try out dates and sport start dates early so they can have their kids prepared and injury free. Otherwise, you may be surprised when your child walks in and says they have a tryout the next day. 

Post from: Positive Parenting in Sports - Raising an Athlete

Preparing for Next Season

Positive parenting posts:

1. Positive Sports Tip of the Day Image via Wikipedia Heat or Ice for Sports Injury...
2. ABC’s of Positive Parenting in Sports – Coaching Philosophy   Sports Coaching Philosophy Coaching Philosophy     It is important...
3. Positive Parenting in Sports – When to Volunteer There are a number of considerations adults should take into...
4. ABC’s of Positive Parenting in Sports Coaching – X Xample – OK, I know I am cheating a little...
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Keys to Success

Following are parenting tips to help bring out the best in athletes and to guarantee athletic success.
1. Begin working on skills at least 6 weeks before the start of practice and gradually increase the work load each week leading up to the season.
2. Begin teaching basic fundamentals at a young age without being overbearing with instruction, of course.
3. Use good training aids when affordable and available. For example, using and stressing the use of a batting tee to hitters of every age can make all the difference.
4. Learn as many quality drills as possible and perform them correctly, especially drills that address the player’s biggest faults. When a drill is good it will force a player to do a skill more efficiently.
5. Use practice time like a golfer uses the driving range – before games for getting loose and for developing grooved actions and after games for making adjustments.

Post from: Positive Parenting in Sports - Raising an Athlete

5 Keys to Success in Sports

Positive parenting posts:

1. Making Sports Fun by Jack Perconte Image via Wikipedia Parents often become concerned because their...
2. Positive Sports Tip of the Day Image by rbatina via Flickr Knowing When to Shift...
3. One Word Never to Use with Young Athletes – Keys to Successful Parenting Image by thejesse via Flickr Previously, I had written...
4. ABC’s of Positive Parenting in Sports – S Success – The old saying “nothing succeeds like success” does...
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Parenitng Advice

Jack’s recent article for Press Enterprise blog
http://blogs.pe.com/moms/2009/11/where-the-wild-things-are-in-s.html

Post from: Positive Parenting in Sports - Raising an Athlete

Where the Wild Things Are In Sports

Positive parenting posts:

1. Excuses,Excuses – Parenting Advice Jack’s recent article for the Press Enterprise Blog – Southern...
2. It’s All About “Perspective” – Parenting Advice From Jack’s blog at the Press Enterprise – Southern California...
3. “Star Treatment” Jack’s Article for Press Enterprise – Southern Californiahttp://blogs.pe.com/moms/2009/10/be-careful-of-the-star-treatme.html Post...
4. Negative Gestures Hurt as Much as Negative Words – Sports Coaching Reprint from Jack’s Press Enterprise Blog – Southern California...
5. Showing Understanding – Sports Coaching Following is Jack’s article he writes for the Press Enterprise...

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Youth Sports Coaching

Jack’s Article for Press Enterprise – Southern Californiahttp://blogs.pe.com/moms/2009/10/be-careful-of-the-star-treatme.html

Post from: Positive Parenting in Sports - Raising an Athlete

“Star Treatment”

Positive parenting posts:

1. Showing Understanding – Sports Coaching Following is Jack’s article he writes for the Press Enterprise...
2. Where the Wild Things Are In Sports Jack’s recent article for Press Enterprise blog http://blogs.pe.com/moms/2009/11/where-the-wild-things-are-in-s.html Post...
3. Excuses,Excuses – Parenting Advice Jack’s recent article for the Press Enterprise Blog – Southern...
4. It’s All About “Perspective” – Parenting Advice From Jack’s blog at the Press Enterprise – Southern California...
5. Negative Gestures Hurt as Much as Negative Words – Sports Coaching Reprint from Jack’s Press Enterprise Blog – Southern California...

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Sports Coaching Tips

Jack’s recent article for the Press Enterprise Blog – Southern California Newspaper Online
http://blogs.pe.com/moms/2009/10/making-outs-and-i-am-not-talki.html

Post from: Positive Parenting in Sports - Raising an Athlete

Excuses,Excuses – Parenting Advice

Positive parenting posts:

1. Where the Wild Things Are In Sports Jack’s recent article for Press Enterprise blog http://blogs.pe.com/moms/2009/11/where-the-wild-things-are-in-s.html Post...
2. “Star Treatment” Jack’s Article for Press Enterprise – Southern Californiahttp://blogs.pe.com/moms/2009/10/be-careful-of-the-star-treatme.html Post...
3. It’s All About “Perspective” – Parenting Advice From Jack’s blog at the Press Enterprise – Southern California...
4. Negative Gestures Hurt as Much as Negative Words – Sports Coaching Reprint from Jack’s Press Enterprise Blog – Southern California...
5. Showing Understanding – Sports Coaching Following is Jack’s article he writes for the Press Enterprise...

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Sports Coaching Tips

     Another common concern parents have is that their child has no confidence. Often, they would ask me to help build up their child’s confidence. Of course, I would work on that because that is what good coaches do. Of more importance, I felt, was to make sure the young players had an overall optimistic outlook. Confidence is great, optimism is even better. Just like people in general, some athletes are naturally confident whereas others have no confidence. Players also have different confidence levels, ranging from very confident to somewhat confident. Usually, the higher the confidence levels of the athlete the better chance of a good performance. Confidence helps but it does not guarantee good results.

     Likewise, some players have an optimistic outlook and others are pessimistic. Optimistic players would say, “My fault, but I’ll get them next time,” while pessimistic players would say things like “I’m no good,” or “the umpire screwed me.” I was an example of a player who played and succeeded without much confidence, yet always had an optimistic feeling about where I was headed in my career. Players can succeed and progress without high levels of confidence, but I have never known a successful player who did not have an optimistic outlook.

Post from: Positive Parenting in Sports - Raising an Athlete

Raising an Athlete – Book Excerpt

Positive parenting posts:

1. ABC’s of Positive Parenting in Sports – O Optimism – One of my favorite words and concepts that...
2. Positive Sports Tip of the Day Image by Beniamino Baj via Flickr Optimism In my...
3. Positive Sports Tip Of the Day Image via Wikipedia Expect Success Recently, I wrote that...
4. Ways to Minimize Parental Pressure – Positive Parenting The following tips can help parents to minimize the pressure...
5. One Word Never to Use with Young Athletes – Keys to Successful Parenting Image by thejesse via Flickr Previously, I had written...

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Parenting Advice

The following tips can help parents to minimize the pressure they inevitably place on their kids:
A. Don’t let your child feel like your day revolves around their game and their play that day, even though it may be the highlight of your day.
B. Do not press them for details immediately after a game unless the player offers it. General questions like how they and the team played and did they have fun are OK, though.
C. At a later time, after dinner or the next day, give a positive before commenting on a player’s action and before offering advice. For example, saying “I liked the way you concentrated, next time you might want to try this in that situation.”
D. Parents should base their evaluations on a player’s effort level and not results. After all, athletes cannot always control winning and results, only their preparation and effort. My definition for success is how close to 100% did an athlete give and not how many points they scored.
E. Do not offer rewards (i.e. ice cream stop, money, etc.) if the child plays well.
F. Remain positive and encouraging – success often comes to players who have supportive, patient and understanding parents.
G. Explain the situation when you do show some frustration over your child’s performance. Apologizing after showing frustration – “I’m sorry, but I want you to do well, that’s part of what parents do” – or something to that effect is good positive parenting. After all, parents are not perfect and this will express that to your kids.

Post from: Positive Parenting in Sports - Raising an Athlete

Ways to Minimize Parental Pressure – Positive Parenting

Positive parenting posts:

1. ABC’s of Positive Parenting in Sports – S Success – The old saying “nothing succeeds like success” does...
2. ABC’s of Positive Parenting in Sports – L Love of the Game – Love is the first...
3. Where the Wild Things Are In Sports Jack’s recent article for Press Enterprise blog http://blogs.pe.com/moms/2009/11/where-the-wild-things-are-in-s.html Post...
4. ABC’s of Positive Parenting in Sports – Q Quit - An obvious word when it comes to the...
5. Positive Parenting Lessons at Holiday Time It would be great if parents could afford to buy...

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Reprint from Jack’s Press Enterprise Blog – Southern California Newpaper
http://blogs.pe.com/moms/2009/09/not-so-harmless.html

Post from: Positive Parenting in Sports - Raising an Athlete

Negative Gestures Hurt as Much as Negative Words – Sports Coaching

Positive parenting posts:

1. It’s All About “Perspective” – Parenting Advice From Jack’s blog at the Press Enterprise – Southern California...
2. Excuses,Excuses – Parenting Advice Jack’s recent article for the Press Enterprise Blog – Southern...
3. Showing Understanding – Sports Coaching Following is Jack’s article he writes for the Press Enterprise...
4. “Star Treatment” Jack’s Article for Press Enterprise – Southern Californiahttp://blogs.pe.com/moms/2009/10/be-careful-of-the-star-treatme.html Post...
5. Where the Wild Things Are In Sports Jack’s recent article for Press Enterprise blog http://blogs.pe.com/moms/2009/11/where-the-wild-things-are-in-s.html Post...

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Sports Coaching Tips

Burnout – Another common word when talking about yout sports. Burnout occurs when playing the game just stops being fun anymore. The causes of burnout generally occur in three ways – over-playing, over-sporting and over-expecting. Kids are often heading for burnout when one or more of these situations occur: 1. When they play one particular sport too often or too long in a year
2. When they get to playing too many sports at the same time
3. When their own or others’ expectations of their performance becomes over-bearing
Parents and players should do their best to avoid any of these three situations from occurring.

Additionally, parents can go a long way towards keeping the fun in the game for young athletes with these three things:
1. Attention – Showing support and enthusiasm for their kids’ efforts is priceless.
2. Approval – Recognizing improvement is inspiration to youth
3. Knowledge - Providing the “know how” builds confidence.
Much more about recognizing and dealing with burnout can be found in Jack’s book Raising an Athlete - How to Instill Confidence, Build Skills and Inspire a Love of Sport

Post from: Positive Parenting in Sports - Raising an Athlete

ABC’s of Positive Parenting in Sports – Burnout – Parenting Advice

Positive parenting posts:

1. Positive Parenting (Coaching) Tip of the Day Image by VDP Sport fotograaf via Flickr Burnout There...
2. Positive Sports Tip of the Day Image by chemisti via Flickr 4 Things to Try...
3. Positive Parenting in Sports – When to Volunteer There are a number of considerations adults should take into...
4. ABC”s of Positive Parenting in Sports Coaching – Z ZEAL – Finally made it to the end of the...
5. ABC’s of Positive Parenting in Sports – O Optimism – One of my favorite words and concepts that...

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Post from: Positive Parenting in Sports - Raising an Athlete

It’s All About “Perspective” – Parenting Advice

Positive parenting posts:

1. Excuses,Excuses – Parenting Advice Jack’s recent article for the Press Enterprise Blog – Southern...
2. Negative Gestures Hurt as Much as Negative Words – Sports Coaching Reprint from Jack’s Press Enterprise Blog – Southern California...
3. “Star Treatment” Jack’s Article for Press Enterprise – Southern Californiahttp://blogs.pe.com/moms/2009/10/be-careful-of-the-star-treatme.html Post...
4. Where the Wild Things Are In Sports Jack’s recent article for Press Enterprise blog http://blogs.pe.com/moms/2009/11/where-the-wild-things-are-in-s.html Post...
5. Showing Understanding – Sports Coaching Following is Jack’s article he writes for the Press Enterprise...

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Post from: Positive Parenting in Sports - Raising an Athlete

Showing Understanding – Sports Coaching

Positive parenting posts:

1. Don’t Allow Coach Trashing Image by Getty Images via Daylife It is very...
2. Where the Wild Things Are In Sports Jack’s recent article for Press Enterprise blog http://blogs.pe.com/moms/2009/11/where-the-wild-things-are-in-s.html Post...
3. “Star Treatment” Jack’s Article for Press Enterprise – Southern Californiahttp://blogs.pe.com/moms/2009/10/be-careful-of-the-star-treatme.html Post...
4. Positive Parenting (Coaching) Tip of Day Image by Spree2010 via Flickr Sleep on It When...
5. Negative Gestures Hurt as Much as Negative Words – Sports Coaching Reprint from Jack’s Press Enterprise Blog – Southern California...

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Coaching Youth Sports

Success – The old saying “nothing succeeds like success” does make sense. Without positive results in sports, most kids will not want to continue, and that is understandable. Success is sometimes hard to define though and just as important is what I call “the feeling of success.” Often, success is judged by who won  and who had the best statitistics, but those should not be the only factors which determine success. In my mind, kids who give as close to 100% as possible are a success no matter what their results. However, this is only the case when parents and coaches recognize this and reward kids for their effort. Parents and coaches who are win at all cost or statistically oriented do not give kids this “feeling of success” and often a kids self-esteem suffers because of this. Positive parenting in sports suggests that parents judge kids on effort and not results and the good news is that often the results will follow for those that give maximum effort.

Post from: Positive Parenting in Sports - Raising an Athlete

ABC’s of Positive Parenting in Sports – S

Positive parenting posts:

1. Ways to Minimize Parental Pressure – Positive Parenting The following tips can help parents to minimize the pressure...
2. Parenting (Coaching) Tip of the Day Image via Wikipedia * “Everyone has the will to...
3. Positive Sports Tip of the Day Image by Beniamino Baj via Flickr Optimism In my...
4. ABC’s of Positive Parenting in Sports – Coaching Philosophy   Sports Coaching Philosophy Coaching Philosophy     It is important...
5. Positive Parenting (Coaching) Tip of the Day Image by Getty Images via Daylife Rewards for Winning...

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Sports Coaching Tips

Post from: Positive Parenting in Sports - Raising an Athlete

ABC’s of Positive Parenting in Sports – R

Positive parenting posts:

1. ABC’s of Positive Parenting in Sports Coaching – W Winning – The first word that comes to mind when...
2. Positive Parenting in Sports – When to Volunteer There are a number of considerations adults should take into...
3. Positive Parenting Lessons at Holiday Time It would be great if parents could afford to buy...
4. Positive Sports Tip of the Day Image by Beniamino Baj via Flickr Optimism In my...
5. Positive Parenting (Coaching) Tip of the Day Image via Wikipedia Remember, doing something right and doing...

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Sports Coaching Tips

Negativity – First word that comes to mind when I think of the letter N is negativity. Negativity unfortunately is way too common in sports coaching today. Coaches and parents who are negative are always looking at the downside of  players performances and make it a point to express the negative to their players. This is definitely the opposite technique that should be used compared to the recommended positive parenting in sports.  It may motivate players for a short period but in the long run negativity tends to wear players and teams down. This coaching technique should not be applied with non-professional athletes and coaches who do coach with negativity should try to understand the negative effects they are having on young athletes.  Coaches and parents who are negative should try to change their style of coaching and parenting and definitely should read books like mine Raising an Athlete – How to Instill Confidence, Build Skills and Inspire a Love of Sport. Kids who feel as though they can never satisfy mom or dad or coach usually lose their desire to keep playing sports.

Post from: Positive Parenting in Sports - Raising an Athlete

ABC’s of Positive Parenting in Sports – N

Positive parenting posts:

1. Showing Understanding – Sports Coaching Following is Jack’s article he writes for the Press Enterprise...
2. ABC’s of Positive Parenting in Sports – Burnout – Parenting Advice   Burnout – Another common word when talking about yout...
3. ABC’s of Positive Parenting in Sports – T   Trust - The obvious word that comes to the...
4. Positive Parenting (Coaching) Tip of Day Image by Getty Images via Daylife How to help...
5. ABC’s of Positive Parenting in Sports – Coaching Philosophy   Sports Coaching Philosophy Coaching Philosophy     It is important...

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Sports Coaching Motivation

Motivation – The first word that comes to mind with sports and the letter M is motiavation. Motivation is a lot like love because it can be developed and it can come at different stages of a child’s career. All kids are diferent  – some are naturally motivated whild others have little motivation. There is no magic formula for making an athlete more motivated. As mentioned, the good news is that it is  can be developed over time in athletes. Parents and coaches should look for opportunities to inspire their kids in sports with the hope that the motivation develops. This can be done in a number of ways with some being: Staying positive, smiling and showing them how proud you are of them when they try hard, being patient, keeping expectations realistic, telling them stories of inpirational athletes. Finally, maybe the best way to motivate an athlete is to give them the knowledge and practice habits that  give them a chance to succeed. Nothing motivates an athlete more than success.

Post from: Positive Parenting in Sports - Raising an Athlete

ABC’s of Positive Parenting – M

Positive parenting posts:

1. ABC’s of Positive Parenting in Sports – Burnout – Parenting Advice   Burnout – Another common word when talking about yout...
2. Positive Sports Tip of the Day Image by Beniamino Baj via Flickr Optimism In my...
3. Ways to Minimize Parental Pressure – Positive Parenting The following tips can help parents to minimize the pressure...
4. It’s All About “Perspective” – Parenting Advice From Jack’s blog at the Press Enterprise – Southern California...
5. ABC’s of Positive Parenting in Sports – R Resiliency – Another one of my favorite words with regards...

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Sports Coaching

Post from: Positive Parenting in Sports - Raising an Athlete

ABC’s of Positive Parenting in Sports – L

Positive parenting posts:

1. Love of Sport Image via Wikipedia I often encounter kids that play...
2. ABC’s of Positive Parenting in Sports – Burnout – Parenting Advice   Burnout – Another common word when talking about yout...
3. “Star Treatment” Jack’s Article for Press Enterprise – Southern Californiahttp://blogs.pe.com/moms/2009/10/be-careful-of-the-star-treatme.html Post...
4. Positive Parenting in Sports – New Year’s Resolutions Following are a few new year’s resolutions for parents for...
5. Positive Sports Tip of the Day “Sports  don’t build character, they reveal it,” is a famous...

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From Raising an Athlete – Jack Perconte’s second book due out September 1 -

Post from: Positive Parenting in Sports - Raising an Athlete

Reality Check – Sports Coaching

Positive parenting posts:

1. Positive Parenting Podcast with Jack Perconte Had a great time talking sports with Joe Magennis –...
2. Training for Fun – Great Blog for Moms Image by Axel Bührmann via Flickr I have been...
3. ABC’s of Positive Parenting in Sports – N Negativity – First word that comes to mind when I...
4. ABC’s of Positive Parenting in Sports Coaching – U Understanding - ”I understand that just because a skill is easy...
5. ABC’s of Positive Parenting in Sports Coaching – Y Youth  – Things are getting tough down here at the...

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Positive Sports Coaching

Attention – Getting the attention of players can be difiicult. Their attention span is often short and when they are around teammates and friends it tends to be even shorter. A couple of techniques I use to help this situation was to allow players time to warm up and socialize with their teammates before giving a talk on what you wanted to accomplish at the practice session, instead of trying to get them to listen immediately at the start of practice. Secondly, I would ask questions about what I was teaching. I was often amazed at which kids were paying attention and which ones were not. Often, the ones paying attention were not the players who were looking directly at you. That is why a short question and answer session was useful. If players know they may be called upon to answer a question, they had a tendency to pay more attention.

 Believability – Parents and coaches must have some experience with what they are teaching youth if they expect players to listen and try what they suggest. If parents don’t know the “why” and have previous “experience” of doing something a certain way, then kids will have a hard time wanting to do it their way. When parents do not have that expertise they should research it (read books, watch video, ask other coaches) or have an experienced coach work with their child. Otherwise, kids will tune the parent out or tell them to be quiet when they play and practice, especially when a kid reaches a higher level of ball, or just an older age. Reaffirming in a positive manner at the appropriate time what the player’s coaches are teaching is good, though. Future posts will discuss things like “positive manner” and “appropriate time.”

Post from: Positive Parenting in Sports - Raising an Athlete

ABC’s of Positive Parenting in Sports – A & B

Positive parenting posts:

1. Are the Athletes Listening? Positive Coaching Image via Wikipedia      I work with baseball and...
2. Positive Parenting in Sports – New Year’s Resolutions Following are a few new year’s resolutions for parents for...
3. Positive Coaching – Check Ego in at the Door Image by melissajonas via Flickr Over the years, one...
4. ABC’s of Positive Parenting in Sports – Burnout – Parenting Advice   Burnout – Another common word when talking about yout...
5. ABC’s of Positive Parenting in Sports Coaching – W Winning – The first word that comes to mind when...

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