What to say before a game at 5–7
The no-stakes script. Kids this age don't need a pep talk. They need to know the snack situation.
What they're feeling
- · Excited about the uniform.
- · Hungry.
- · Curious about which friend is on the team today.
- · Not really thinking about the game yet.
What to say (pick one)
- "I'm going to be on the bleachers cheering."
- "What snack do you want after?"
- "Have fun out there."
Then stop talking.
What not to say
- "Today's the day."
- "Remember what we worked on."
- "If you score, I'll get you ice cream."
- "Don't let them score on your side."
The rule
Kids this age are not having performance anxiety. Don't install it for them by treating the game like it matters.
If they bring it up
- · If they ask if you'll be watching, the answer is yes. Don't add anything else.
- · If they say they're nervous, ask what about. Then say 'okay, we'll see what happens.'
- · If they ask whether they'll win, the answer is 'I don't know, neither does anyone.'
Pin this
Before a game at 5–7
- · No tactical talk. They're not running tactics.
- · Confirm logistics. Snack, drink, who is picking them up.
- · End with 'have fun.' Mean it.
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