Post-Game Pep Talks That Work for Kids

Win or lose, boost your child's self-esteem with supportive comments.

The post-game handshake is a youth sports tradition.
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No pressure, Mom and Dad, but the post-game chat can make or break your kids' youth sports experience. These talks handled well, will make sports participation more meaningful for your children. And as a bonus, they'll strengthen your relationship with them too.

There's a difference between the immediate (say, in the car going home) conversation and the one that happens a few hours later or the next day. In the initial aftermath of a competition, your child may just need time to decompress, and may not want to talk about the event at all. Respect their feelings, and learn what works best for them. Every kid is different.

Why Have a Post-Game Chat?

The hours after a game offers you a unique parenting opportunity. After the event, your discussion needs to accomplish a lot of different tasks. Consider the benefits and the different ways that you can accomplish each goal.

Post Game Pep Talk Benefits

  • Build your kids' confidence
  • Reinforce sportsmanship
  • Show unconditional love and support
  • Help your children set expectations for the future
  • Learn about problems your kids are facing


To boost your child's confidence and self-esteem after a game, offer praise that is specific and sincere—and not tied to the final outcome. You want to notice their effort, not whether the team won or lost. Say: "I noticed that you really tried hard to point your toes like your coach suggested" or "That was a nice pass to Taylor in the 2nd period." Don't say: "Great job!" (It feels false and unearned.)


Being a good sport means being gracious in victory, but also in defeat. So avoid trashing opponents or officials if your child loses a game or performs poorly. That sets a bad example! If your child's team did win, steer clear of boasting too vehemently. Say: "Your team really worked well together today" or "The other team had some great shots on goal." Don't say: "That ref was terrible. Your team should have won!"


Your child needs to know that you're not angry or ashamed if they lose or perform poorly. They also need to understand that your love isn't dependent on their successes in sports. That sounds far-fetched, but it happens, and can quickly lead to anxiety or burnout. Say: "I am so proud of you," "I am so impressed with how hard you worked," or "I love to watch you run." Don't say: "I'm disappointed" or "How come you didn't make that catch?"

Future Success

Use the after-game debrief to encourage your child and to guide their upcoming efforts. But don't do a play-by-play analysis, especially immediately following a game; save that for the coach. Say: "Your practice seems to be paying off!" or "I know you're sad that you lost. Is there something you want me to help you practice before the next game?" Don't say: "You're not practicing hard enough!"

Diagnosing Problems

If your child is struggling in their sport, you can sometimes sniff out a problem during your chat. Proceed with caution, as their emotions are likely running high at this time. You may need to allow a cooling-off period, and then follow up. You may be able to sense what issues are cropping up with sensitive questions. Say: "Did you have fun?", "Did you learn anything new?", or "Did anyone say anything funny in the locker room?" Don't say: "How come you don't like your team anymore?" or "Did the coach yell at everyone, or just you?"

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