Raising Young Athletes

September 15, 2018

Benefits gained from athletics are myriad, according to veteran psychologist Taylor (Positive Pushing: How To Raise a Successful and Happy Child). Physical health, self-mastery, resilience, social and relationship development, and all-around fun are some of the advantages detailed in this manual. Unfortunately, monied interests infused into sports broadcasting have created a celebrity lure that has contributed to parents being more concerned with fulfilling their own athletic dreams through their children. For instance, in 2016, a survey showed that 26 percent of parents believed their children would become professional athletes, creating an industry dubbed the "youth sports industrial complex" and resulting in overcompetition, burnout of youth athletes, and a loss of enjoyment. As a world-ranked alpine ski racer, black belt in karate, marathon runner, and triathlete who works with Olympic-level athletes, Taylor is distinctly qualified to teach parents how to direct their children toward healthy, positive sports experiences. VERDICT Solid, trustworthy advice for parents of athletes elementary age and up.

Copyright 2018 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

November 1, 2018

Benefits gained from athletics are myriad, according to veteran psychologist Taylor (Positive Pushing: How To Raise a Successful and Happy Child). Physical health, self-mastery, resilience, social and relationship development, and all-around fun are some of the advantages detailed in this manual. Unfortunately, monied interests infused into sports broadcasting have created a celebrity lure that has contributed to parents being more concerned with fulfilling their own athletic dreams through their children. For instance, in 2016, a survey showed that 26 percent of parents believed their children would become professional athletes, creating an industry dubbed the "youth sports industrial complex" and resulting in overcompetition, burnout of youth athletes, and a loss of enjoyment. As a world-ranked alpine ski racer, black belt in karate, marathon runner, and triathlete who works with Olympic-level athletes, Taylor is distinctly qualified to teach parents how to direct their children toward healthy, positive sports experiences. VERDICT Solid, trustworthy advice for parents of athletes elementary age and up.Julia M. Reffner, Richmond, VA

Copyright 2018 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

October 1, 2018
Taylor, a renowned sports psychologist and successful athlete in his own right, offers this useful, modern guide for parents navigating the changing world of youth sports. He aims for a deep and broad perspective on how to ensure that your children's sports participation fosters nurturing experiences, encourages positive attitudes, and promotes their most healthy development, as both athletes and people, as they move toward adulthood. Each chapter illustrates the path to athletic success through the development of values, a sense of self, and ownership and concludes with Taylor's essential do's and don'ts for sports parents. In today's culture of specialization, traveling teams, and messages from the media that promise fame, money, and professional careers, Taylor believes that parents need more help than ever to make sure their children's athletic experiences are balanced, healthy, and, most of all, fun. This is an informative resource for any parent and a must-read for those with children already participating in the rewarding and challenging world of sports.?(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2018, American Library Association.)