Extracurricular activities for kids can have several benefits. They help keep kids physically active and mentally engaged. These activities can also help shape your child’s social development, give them a sense of involvement, and may improve their self-esteem. Whether your child is 2 or 12, choosing an extracurricular activity for kids can be tough, especially […]
Hazing and Sports: What it is and ways to prevent it
Many teens mistakenly believe they must earn their spot on the team and prove themselves worthy of the jersey by participating in hazing. What they view as a bonding activity to make the team more close-knit is often the opposite. “Instead of the intended team building, hazing creates an environment where dignity and respect are […]
6 tips to balance school and sports
Anyone with young athletes at home knows how quickly daily schedules fill up. To help kids balance school, sports and fun, Allyson Weldon, PhD, sports psychologist at Akron Children’s suggests teaching kids time management early so they are better at it as they grow. “Time management is a hard skill for many people to learn, […]
Encourage performance, not perfection, in sports
Signs your child is passionate about a sport can often be seen in the number of hours they spend playing, watching or talking about it. When this passion turns into an unrealistic drive to perfect their game – throwing a no hitter every game or sticking the landing at every competition – parents should help […]
How to be the parent your student-athlete needs you to be
Being the parent your student-athlete needs you to be requires self-awareness, honesty, communications skills and tough love – What, that’s all? – according to an Akron Children’s sports psychologist. Allyson Weldon, PhD, provides some common scenarios and fundamental guidance for parents. Are they having fun? Is it their dream they’re living on the field, or […]
Should I let my child quit sports?
Whether stemming from an injury, burnout or a disagreement with the coach, quitting a sport can have lasting effects on a child. As a parent or caregiver, understanding the repercussions of quitting can make you an asset to your child’s well-being when they contemplate leaving a sport. “It can be a huge loss of identity […]
