When physical, social and emotional developmental stages are not understood, parents and coaches may have unrealistic expectations of performance, leading to behaviors that may embarrass and discourage the young athlete and teach them the incorrect way to handle their behavior during a sporting event. The bottom line? Discouraged athletes leave sports and find other (often less desirable) ways to spend their free time.

A Positive 
Pro-Active Solution

The Rediscovering Youth Sportsmanship program is a statewide initiative which provides training, support, and step-by-step guidelines to help adults keep sports a safe haven for kids.

Developed by behavioral health specialists at the Saint Barnabas Behavioral Health Network in partnership with professionals from The Sports Medicine Institute at Saint Barnabas Ambulatory Care Center, the program is designed to help parents meet the physical, emotional and social developmental needs of young athletes, ages 6 to 18, through positive parental involvement and modeling of sportsmanlike behavior.

The program helps parents recognize realistic goals for children, and identifies common triggers for inappropriate behavior. It also assists administrators, coaches and officials in eliminating negative influences. By offering each league a customized, comprehensive program of education and hands-on support, the program fosters respectful appreciation of youth athletic competition as a rewarding experience, win or lose.

For more information call (877) 84-YOUTH or email: info@sbhcs.com  today! 

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Saint Barnabas Health Care System