256 The Immature Brain: How To Help An Emotional Child

In this podcast episode, David focuses on the emotional control aspect of mental toughness.  Where he discusses the emotional states that children may experience before and during competitions and matches.  He shares a personal story about his son's first competitive league football match, highlighting the typical nervousness and arousal levels children and parents experience.  David also emphasises the fact children have an immature brain and draws on psychological research which highlights the need for parents and coaches to adopt a calm, patient and supportive approach, recognising they act as a role model and that children easily pick up on their behaviours and reactions.   Key Learning Points: It’s important for parents, parent-coaches and coaches to reflect and recognise the emotional state and arousal levels their children and players experience before and during competitive events and matches, as well as their own levels of arousal and how this can impact their children and players. It’s possible to consider ways to make the experience calmer for children, listening to their needs and wishes before and during competitions and matches.  For some children, allowing them to use electronic devices, bringing a comfort item in the car, or avoiding discussions about their sport can be useful ideas. Arguably, focusing on highlighting your child's strengths and positive experiences when providing advice or support is more beneficial before and during a match, than overwhelming them with too much information, especially negatives. Connect with David Charlton Sign Up to The Mental Edge Join David @ The Sports Psychology Hub Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIN To Listen to Related Podcasts To Help Children In Sport Ep250: Ruth Chiles and Alessia Bruno - Optimising Your Potential By Understanding Your Nervous System Better Ep176: Prof Camilla Knight - How To Help Enhance The Psychological Wellbeing Of Children In Sport #BITESIZE Ep122: Prof Camilla Knight – Helping Your Children Get The Most From Their Sporting Experiences Ep082: David Charlton – Supporting Children in Sport with Positive Feedback Ep049: James Maurice – How Does Sport Psychology in Elite Football Academies Help  Blogs And Case Studies To Support Children In Sport Blog 3 Tips to Help Children Enjoy Their Sport Blog: Pre Match Tips for Parents Blog: How does Counselling work in Professional Sport? Blog: 5 Reasons Why Being Released from a Football Academy is Difficult Case Study: How to Cope with Performance Anxiety in Gymnastics Case Study: Supporting a Young Footballer to Overcome His Fears Relevant Resources in Supporting Sporting Children Sports Psychology Resources for Youth Sport (Blogs, Podcasts, Video's) Sport Psychology for Children and Parents  Child and Youth Motivation for Sport Quiz Parent Motivation for Sport Quiz