Parent/Guardian Guide

Your job

You create safety, not pressure. The player owns the next step. Keep sessions short, predictable, and encouraging.

Words to use

• “You are in control of the next safe step.”
• “Taking is a skill.”
• “We can repeat this level.”
• “What helped you feel ready?”
• “That was a brave choice.”

Words to avoid

• “Don’t be scared.”
• “Just stand in there.”
• “You have to get hit to learn.”
• “Your teammate would do it.”
• Any public comparison, punishment, or surprise test.

Set up a safe session

Use equipment that matches the player’s readiness: no ball, a foam ball, whiffle ball, tennis ball, tee, gentle side toss, or a slow predictable front toss. The hitter sees every rep begin. Let them choose an easier step, a take, a reset, or a repeat day.

When to stop

Stop immediately for pain, dizziness, new vision symptoms, suspected head injury/concussion, or distress that does not settle. Follow clinician restrictions and seek qualified guidance before return when needed. This program is not medical care or mental-health treatment.

Five-minute check-in

Ask: “What is your readiness from 1–5?” “What is one brave win?” “What is your next safe step?” Praise commitment and clear choices—not only contact or hard hits.