141 How to Help a Child Who Wants to Quit Sport

Demystifying Mental Toughness

In this short solo episode, I answer a question posed by a parent. “My son has had a tough time recently and often talks about not wanting to continue with football.”

Sadly, this question appears to be a common one at present and shows no signs of going away potentially down to the pressures placed on children at a young age, both in their sport and education. I do my best to give sporting parents one idea on how you can help them and open up a conversation on the topic.

Key Learning

• Ask your child why they play football or sport.
• Find out what they love about sport.
• Check-in with yourself, why would you like your children to play sport?
• Now check if you share common ground, if there is a big difference in your motivations I’m hoping you’ll question your approach and consider how you communicate with them.

Connect with David Charlton

Sign Up to Conversations with Kids

Download THE FOCUSED ATHLETE CHECKLIST

Join David @ The Sports Psychology Hub

Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn

Relevant Podcast Episodes

Ep067: David Charlton - Supporting Children to Transfer their Skills from Training to Competition

Ep074: David Charlton - How Can I Make My Child Feel Confident?

Ep082: David Charlton - Supporting Children in Sport with Positive Feedback

Ep085: David Charlton - David on Being Tough Vs Being Comfortable in Your Own Skin Part 4

Ep122: Prof Camilla Knight - Helping Your Children Get The Most From Their Sporting Experiences

Other Relevant Blogs and Resources

Blog: A Confidence Checklist for Parents

Blog: Pre Match Tips for Parents

Blog: How Do You Give a Young Golfer Self-Confidence?

Blog: 5 Reasons Why Being Released from a Football Academy is Difficult

Children and Youth Motivation for Sport Quiz

Child and Youth Motivation Quiz for Parents