A concerned mother visited my clinic together with her son. ⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣

The teenager played football for almost 3 years when he suddenly stopped. ⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣

Mom was worried and after several sessions, it was clear that the teen was battling serious anxiety. ⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣

Many factors contributed to his mental state but one evident reason was his mom's “coaching” habits. ⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣

One of the most damaging things a parent can do to a child who plays sports is to lead them to believe that their coach or team is wrong. 

⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣Let the coach do the coaching. ⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣

Playing coach when you are not trained in the specifics and rules of the game will only confuse the athlete. This can lead to the child’s delayed development and lack of trust in his peers. ⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣

Ask yourself: Am I encouraging or forcing? ⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣

Unless the parent and coach are on the same page, let’s not rob our kids of their right to learn from those who best know their craft.