Before a big game, for younger kids. What to say.
What to say to your 6 or 7-year-old before a big game. The script that keeps it fun and skips the pressure.
What they're feeling
- · Excited and nervous at the same time.
- · Not fully sure why today feels bigger.
- · Tuned into your energy completely.
- · Wanting to know if it's going to be fun.
What to say (pick one)
- "We're going to go have fun today."
- "I love watching you play."
- "High five when it's over?"
Then stop talking.
What not to say
- "This is a really important game."
- "You have to play your best today."
- "Grandma and grandpa are going to be watching."
The rule
At six and seven, fun is the whole thing. Don't import adult stakes into it.
If they bring it up
- · If they say they're nervous, say that's okay and you'll be cheering the whole time.
- · Keep the pregame routine the same as any other day.
- · Talk about something fun you're going to do after the game.
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Before a big game, young kids
- · Your energy is contagious. Keep it light.
- · Name one thing that's going to be fun, not one thing they need to do well.
- · The memory they take from this age is feeling good, not the score.
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