Sports talent programs could be harmful for children`s long-term psychological wellbeing

.....Early specialization carries greater risk for athletes, with links to burnout, injury and dropout. An intense investment in sport at an early age may also impact on a child`s identity development, which is a key part of psychological development as they grow up. For example, if a child doesn`t have other hobbies or doesn`t try new activities, it can make them feel like their identity is solely tied to the sport they specialize in.

If an young person`s identity is tied to a single, narrow perception of themselves, they also run the risk of having their sense of self disrupted when this identity is challenged—say through injury, underperformance, or retirement. This could have significant consequences on their confidence, mental health and wellbeing.....

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Bethany`s Notes: A lot of this is already known but sometimes it needs to be reiterated. Let kids enjoy a multitude of sports. Let them decide and show interest and initiation in doing more or less. Let the child lead and be a wise parent if you think your child might want to do too much.