“As coaches and parents interact with athletes, the way they provide feedback and instruction can influence how athletes approach any new challenge. Coaching through positive self-talk is an opportunity to teach kids to approach new situations with optimism and confidence.
According to sport psychologist Dr. Roberta Kraus, Ph.D., there is a four-step process for learning new skills: think, feel, perform, and create habits. Here are five ways Dr. Kraus says parents and coaches can help athletes learn new skills and perform at their best through positive self-talk.”