145 How Can I Help My Children Who Suffer With Nerves Before They Compete?

In this short solo episode, I answer a question posed by a parent. “How can I help my son, a goalkeeper who gets very grumpy and nervous the evening before a match?”  Many children across a range of sports face this challenge, often talking themselves into performing poorly before they go out to play a match or compete. They let nervousness win. Today’s episode is set up to help parents where I share some ideas on how you could adapt your approach so that you help your children.  Key Learning Consider if you are providing emotional support or if you are drawn into problem solving? Offer your children some space. Help your children to find ways to switch off from their sport. Be careful not to over-coach your children. Consider if practice the day or evening before is fun and relaxing or actually fuelling anxiety and perfectionism. Connect with David Charlton Sign Up to Conversations with Kids Join David @ The Sports Psychology Hub Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn Relevant Podcast Episodes Ep008: Brendan Pearson - Academy Football, Professional Football, Injuries and Early Retirement Ep074: David Charlton - How Can I Make My Child Feel Confident? Ep087: Carl Bell - From Professional Football and Goalkeeping to Physiotherapy Ep112: David Charlon - How to Deal with Physical Insecurities as a Young Athlete Ep122: Prof Camilla Knight - Helping Your Children Get The Most From Their Sporting Experiences Other Relevant Blogs and Resources Blog: Pre Match Tips for Parents Blog: 5 Reasons Why Being Released from a Football Academy is Difficult Blog: How To Overcome Self-Doubt When You’re A Goalkeeper Blog: Goalkeepers – Does your warm up have to be perfect for you to feel confident Blog: Do You Focus Too Much on the Opposition as a Goalkeeper