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Family Watching Game

RESOURCES FOR PARENTS

CCSPA provides evidence-based resources to help parents support healthy development, confidence, and wellbeing across all stages of sport while respecting athlete autonomy.

Parents play a powerful role in an athlete’s experience, often shaping how young people interpret pressure, success, setbacks, and their own potential. From youth sports through college athletics, the demands placed on athletes—both internal and external—continue to grow.

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CCSPA provides evidence-based resources to help parents better understand the mental and emotional side of sport. These resources are designed to support healthy development, confidence, and well-being while respecting athletes’ autonomy and independence.

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Whether your athlete is just beginning their sport journey or competing at the collegiate level, understanding how to support mental performance and mental health can make a meaningful difference.

Youth Soccer Team
How Can Sport Psychology Services Help Parents?
When to Consider Mental Health or Performance Support

Sport Psychology professionals can help parents learn:

  • Signs your athlete may be struggling with confidence, anxiety, or mood

  • Understanding that support is not just for crisis situations

  • Normalizing mental health and performance support as part of athlete development

Mental Health vs
Mental Performance

Sport Psychology professionals can help parents learn:

  • Differences between mental performance and mental health treatment

  • When overlap is appropriate

  • How professionals work within ethical and confidentiality guidelines

How Parents Can Support Athletes Effectively

Sport Psychology professionals can help parents learn:

  • Communication strategies that build confidence and autonomy

  • Avoiding common pressure traps (even well-intentioned ones)

  • Supporting effort, growth, and resilience—not just outcomes

Transitions, Pressure, and Athlete Development

Sport Psychology professionals can help parents learn:

  • Effective transitions from youth sports to high school to college

  • Managing expectations, identity, and independence

  • Navigating increased pressure, competition, and visibility

Confidentiality, Boundaries, and Parent Involvement

Sport Psychology professionals can help parents learn:

  • What parents can expect regarding communication and privacy

  • Differences between youth and collegiate athletes

  • Supporting your athlete while respecting independence

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