Recently, we partnered with the Wheaton CHADD Parent Support Group to host a workshop for families of children with ADHD who also participate in sports. Our goal was simple and important: to understand how emotional regulation, parents, and coaches all play a role in an athlete’s success.
Understanding ADHD in the Sports Context
We began by normalizing a truth many parents quietly experience: ADHD traits can become more pronounced in sports settings, not because a child is unmotivated or “not trying,” but because the demands are high.
Sports demand focus, quick thinking, emotional control, and constant transitions. For athletes with ADHD, these pressures combine with impulse control, working memory, and motivation challenges. Added factors like anxiety, perfectionism, sleep, nutrition, and social or coaching pressure can further intensify symptoms.
"ADHD can look different and present in different ways. Athletes may not show the same behaviors in school or at home as they do in their sport." -Cortnee White, M.Ed, The Athlete Mind
What ADHD Can Look Like on the Field, Court, or in the Pool
Parents shared examples that are incredibly common among athletes with ADHD:
And sometimes, things fall off track in predictable ways:
When parents understand why these patterns happen, they can respond with empathy instead of frustration and help their child build the skills they need to grow.
Turning Insight into Action: Emotional Regulation
We introduced a three-step approach to help athletes manage emotional intensity:
Step 1: Recognize the Spiral
Notice when frustration, anxiety, or overwhelm is building.
Step 2: Release
Discharge emotional energy in a safe, structured way.
Step 3: Reset
Refocus attention and intention using mindfulness-based strategies.
Other Tools That Help Athletes Thrive
From a therapist’s lens,we also discussed strategies that reduce overwhelm:
✔️ Build predictability
Preview plans, timelines,and expectations to reduce surprises.
✔️Minimize distractions
Use routines to control what you can—packing lists, visual reminders, pre-game rituals.
✔️ Create routines
Consistency reduces stress and helps working memory.
✔️ Use supportive communication
Motivation grows when kids feel understood not shamed.
✔️ Lead with empathy and curiosity
Connection creates influence. Influence creates change.
Rephrasing Parenting Moments
We practiced shifting from frustration to connection. Here are examples from our workshop:
Instead of… “Why didn’t you pay attention?” Try… “What was going through your mind?”
Instead of… “You should have passed the ball.” Try… “Next time, let’s practice…”
Instead of… “You always forget this play.” Try… “I’ve noticed this pattern…”
Instead of… “You obviously don’t care.” Try… “What support do you need?”
These small changes reduce defensiveness and build emotional skills on and off the field.
How Therapy Can Support Young Athletes
In our practice, we work closely with children, teens, and families to strengthen emotional regulation, motivation, and resilience. Sports can be a powerful entry point for therapy because:
We help athletes understand themselves, manage frustration,build focus, and navigate the pressure of performance. Therapy is not about “fixing” kids it’s about giving them tools they deserve to have.
Why Early Support Matters
Getting ahead of emotional and behavioral patterns now can prevent challenges in:
Early intervention smooths the path so kids don’t grow into adults who are overwhelmed, ashamed, or still trying to figure out strategies they could have learned years earlier.
When You’re Unsure How to Support Your Child, Know You’re Not Alone
If you’re a parent feeling stuck, discouraged, or confused,that doesn’t mean you’re failing. It means you care. And it means support could make a meaningful difference.
Here are a few resources we recommend:
CHADD (Children and Adults with ADHD): groups offer assistance for parents, children, young adults, adults and other stakeholders(psychologists, teachers, doctors, etc.). They also provide advocacy, support,networking and information to those affected by ADHD in their communities.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re considering therapy for your child or teen, we’re here to help you:
Supporting young athletes with ADHD is a team effort and you don’t have to navigate it alone.
If you’re interested in starting therapy or have questions about Sport Psychology services, please reach out:
Call: 331-457-2020
Email: info@growwellnessgroup.com
Website: https://www.growwellnessgroup.com/
