Visualization for kids sports:
PARENT: Find a relaxing place to sit or lie down. Breathe in and out (pause). In and out. Gently close your eyes and allow your body to relax. Now, when you are ready, see yourself getting ready to play… (whatever his sport is). Let’s start by getting dressed. Put on your… (guide him through his specific clothing, uniform, equipment). How do you feel?
Child responds.
PARENT: Go to… (the gym, field, school—or wherever the athletic event will be). Imagine yourself looking strong, confident and ready to play. Take a look at the… (field, court, etc.). How does it look?
Child responds.
PARENT: Acknowledge child’s response. What is the weather like?
Child responds.
PARENT: Who else is there?
Child responds.
PARENT: How do you feel?
Child responds.
PARENT: Are you nervous?
CHILD: Yes. Observe your child’s response.
PARENT: If yes, where do you feel nervous?
CHILD: In my tummy.
PARENT: Oh, that’s very common. Just pay attention to your tummy. Try putting your hand on your tummy and breathe into your hand. Does that help?
CHILD: A little.
PARENT: That’s OK. You can take anything you’d like with you in your imagination. Is there something you would like to bring with you to help you?
Child might want to bring a picture or small personal item.
By Dr. Lynn Hellerstein, Metro Denver eye doctor in vision therapy and vision improvement.
A pioneer in vision therapy and developmental optometry, Dr. Lynn Hellerstein is the founder of Hellerstein & Brenner Vision Center, PC. For more than 40 years, she has helped thousands of children and adults improve their vision and transform their lives — at home, in the classroom and on the sports field.
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