The child no longer rejoices in victories. He fears making mistakes. He hates the sport he once loved. His face shows no emotions. Familiar? This is emotional burnout caused by parental pressure. Thousands of children quit sections not because they are tired but because mom and dad turned a hobby into a race for results.

Where does the pressure come from

Parents often project their own ambitions onto their child: “I didn't become a champion, let him.” They compare with the children of friends (“But Peter has already won a tournament”). They demand only first place, calling the second “defeat”. Financial investments increase the pressure: “We paid for your equipment, you owe it.” The child stops playing for fun — he plays out of fear.

Signs of burnout

The child feigns illness before training. He has become irritable, cries without a reason, sleeps poorly. He has lost his appetite. He says: “I hate this sport,” although he asked to buy the uniform half a year ago. He may appear compliant on the outside, but inside, fatigue accumulates, which turns into apathy or aggression. In severe cases, tics, enuresis, and panic attacks may appear.

How not to overdo it as parents

Ask your child: “Do you like what you are doing?”. Don't pressure for results — praise for effort. Establish a rest schedule: children should have free time without training and lessons. Don't compare with other children (compare only with their past achievements). Attend competitions as spectators, not as supervisors. If you feel like you're about to yell, shut up and breathe out.

What to do if burnout has already occurred

First, stop pressuring. Second, give the child a break (a month without training). Third, consult a sports psychologist. It may be necessary to change the sport or coach. The main thing is not to blame yourself, but to admit a mistake. The child is more important than medals.

The child is not a robot. His psyche is not made of iron. Love and support are more important than any trophy. Remember this when you next want to say: “You could have done better”.

Permanent link to this publication: