Make statements of observations instead of pointed commands. Allow them a voice in how they explain themselves and what transpired. The communication stays open and they can internalize the feedback much easier and effectively.

Worth repeating: The worst time to discuss” performance is on the ride home. We may want to talk so bad that it is like acid in our mouth—they need to know what we think. We have great points, and they need to know how they can improve. All true, but we just cannot share them on the ride home.

David Boudia, says there are two types of game-day athletes. He calls them “plus or minus athletes.” His theory is based on the research from George Miller. The principle that the average number of information bits we retain in our short-term memory is seven. For example, the length of our phone number.25 Plus-two athletes can comprehend more infor

The best sports parents seem to be behind the scenes, providing encouragement and a supportive environment. Appreciate the long-term, and depreciate the short-term.

When we root for others, it means that we are confident. Rooting for everyone means wanting to beat people at their best. It is honoring them for their talent and respecting them as fellow athletes. We should want them to play well, but just for us to play a little bit better.

When we criticize others outside of our family our children hear this. When we become stressed out and we struggle to control our language or behavior, our children witness it.

Why do you want your son or daughter to participate in sports? • What do you want your child to become outside of sport? • How much value do you place on academics? • How often do we discuss winning and expectations as opposed to the effort?

Parents, we need to be their greatest supportive coach. It is our job to be the coach that we always wanted. Our actions shape their beliefs. We are the greatest influence on our children’s lives and in their development, stability, attitudes, likes, and dislikes. Children watch everything we do and learn by modeling behaviors and beliefs about our

How do you introduce and describe your kids? “There goes our little winner” or “Here comes Johnny, our star goalie.” Be careful about using descriptors that emphasize only part of your child’s identity. No one is always a winner and we certainly don’t always lose.