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We examine the psychology behind what truly motivates young athletes and explore how parents can nurture sustainable passion for sports in their children.

• Understanding intrinsic motivation – the internal desire to participate because it's enjoyable and satisfying
• Stories of young athletes like Sarah the gymnast and Caitlin the runner who exemplify internal drive
• The limitations of extrinsic motivation including trophies, praise, and recognition
• How external rewards can sometimes backfire and lead to anxiety or burnout
• The importance of balancing inner passion and external validation
• How cultural and social influences shape athletic motivation
• Practical strategies for parents including encouraging self-assessment and emphasizing mastery
• Creating supportive environments that prioritize teamwork and enjoyment
• Recognizing effort and progress rather than just focusing on outcomes

Think about the subtle ways you might be inadvertently placing more emphasis on extrinsic rewards rather than nurturing your child's intrinsic joy in sports. What small changes could you make in your conversations after their next game to better support their love for the game?