A guide for parents
Nerves are part
of the game
Players feel pressure: before a big game, after a mistake, even on the ride home. In our sessions, kids will practice handling it. Here's what that will look like, what helps at home and where to turn when a child needs more help.
In our sessions
Handle the pressure
As we put it to players: “Practice handling nerves and pressure from coaches, parents and the crowd. Think before you post or film, and learn to spot a scam.”
Ages 10–12
Practice handling nerves, mistakes and pressure from the crowd.
Ages 13–17
Learn why what you post or film stays online.
Ages 14–17, with a parent (later)
A session on NIL (name, image and likeness) basics: how a contract works, what to ask, red flags, who signs, and how to say no when people start asking you for money. Then life after sports, from a first job and a first paycheck to a plan B. No company will be promoted.
At home and at the game
Six ideas to try
Everyday ideas, not medical advice.
Name the nerves
Feeling nervous before a game is normal. Help your child name it instead of hiding it: “I'm nervous because I want to play well.”
Build a reset
Practice a short routine for after a mistake: one slow breath, one word they pick, then the next play.
Let them lead the ride home
After a game, let your child talk first. Ask what was fun or what they want to work on, and save any critique for later.
Cheer the effort
From the stands, cheer effort and teamwork, and leave the coaching to the coach.
Think before posting or filming
What goes online can stay online. Talk about asking before filming anyone, and waiting to post when emotions run high.
Spot the scam
If someone online promises money, gear or a tryout in exchange for a fee or personal details, stop and talk with a parent first.
Skills, not therapy
When a child needs more help
Coaches will teach skills for handling pressure, not counsel. If a child needs more help, they'll bring in the program's own staff, and anyone can call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
In an emergency
If someone is in immediate danger, call 911.
Call or text 988
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline answers any time, day or night, by call, text or chat at 988lifeline.org. You can reach out if you're worried about your child, too.
In Spanish
Call 988 and press 2, or text AYUDA to 988.
If it doesn't let up
If worry or sadness doesn't let up, or starts getting in the way of school, sleep, eating or friends, talk with your child's doctor or a school counselor.
No cost to families
Hear about the pilot first
Kids will take part through a program they already attend, so FSL can't sign a child up directly. Join the family list and we'll let you know when a pilot site is confirmed.