Managing Anxiety in Children's Sport

As children grow up, participating in sports can be an excellent way to develop physical and social skills. However, for some children, the idea of participating in sports can bring about feelings of anxiety and nervousness. It can be challenging for parents to know how to support their child when they are experiencing anxiety in these situations. In this blog post, we'll explore the different ways that children may experience anxiety when playing sport and how Hopscotch and Harmony Psychology can help.

Causes of Anxiety in Sport

There are many reasons why children might experience anxiety when playing sport. Some common causes include:

• Fear of failure: Children may be worried about not performing well in front of others, which can lead to feelings of embarrassment.
• Pressure from parents or coaches: Parents or coaches may put pressure on children to perform, which can make them feel stressed.
• Fear of getting hurt: Children may be worried about getting injured while playing sport.
• Social anxiety: Children may feel anxious about being around other people and worry about what others might think of them.
• Lack of confidence: Children who lack confidence in their abilities may feel anxious about participating in sports.

Symptoms of Anxiety in Sport

It's essential to recognise the symptoms of anxiety in children when playing sport so that you can support them. Some of the signs of anxiety include:

• Difficulty sleeping or nightmares
• Nausea or stomach aches
• Avoidance of activities related to the sport
• Irritability or mood swings
• Crying or expressing fear
• Refusing to go to training or games
• Decreased interest in the sport they are playing

Ways to Help Children with Anxiety in Sport

There are several ways that parents and coaches can help children experiencing anxiety when playing sport.

1. Encourage and support your child. It's important to let your child know that you are proud of them, regardless of how they perform. Encourage them to try their best, but don't put pressure on them to win or be perfect.
2. Create a safe and positive environment. Make sure that your child feels safe and comfortable when playing sport. Encourage positive interactions with coaches, teammates, and other parents.
3. Practice relaxation techniques. Teach your child relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, visualisation, or meditation, to help them manage their anxiety.
4. Seek professional help. If your child's anxiety is severe, consider seeking help from a psychologist. A psychologist can work with your child to develop coping skills and manage their anxiety.

Conclusion

Anxiety is a common experience for children when playing sport. It's important to keep an eye out for symptoms and understand the causes so that you can support your child. By creating a safe and positive environment, encouraging your child, teaching relaxation techniques, and seeking professional help when needed, you can help your child manage their anxiety and enjoy participating in sports.

Book an Appointment

Jacob Spinks, Psychologist
As a psychologist and athlete, Jacob understands the unique challenges young athletes face both on and off the field. His tailored approach focuses on equipping young athletes with the mental skills and resilience needed to navigate the demands of competitive sports. From managing performance anxiety and building confidence to fostering a positive mindset and enhancing focus, Jacob's goal is to empower young athletes to reach their full potential. Through personalised strategies and compassionate support, Jacob guides his clients in developing the mental toughness and emotional well-being necessary for success in sports and beyond.