By Dr. Darrell Burnett

Positive coaching: Fourteen ways to keep youth sports positive.

1. Concentrate on positives.
2. Over Teach
3. Amplify successes.
4. Compliment specifics.
5. Have fun.
6. Instill laughter.
7. Never presume anything.
8. Get into their shoes. Empathize.9. Set an example of good sportsmanship.
10. Promote team spirit.
11. Organize to avoid confusion.
12. Recognize progress.
13. Teach and assess skills.
14. Set reasonable expectations.

Dr. Darrell Burnett is a clinical psychologist and a certified sports psychologist specializing in youth sports. He has been in private practice for 25+ years in Laguna Niguel, California. His book, IT’S JUST A GAME! (Youth, Sports, & Self Esteem: A Guide for Parents), is described at his website, http://www.djburnett.com, along with his other books, booklets and CDs on youth sports and family life.