The title of an article in the August 2007 issue of USA Gymnastics Technique magazine.
Some downsides familiar to all coaches:
Undermining children’s confidence Instilling fear of failure Stunting growth and development Raising anxiety levels
Strategies for coaches:
Encourage parents to take advantage of disappointment Promote open communication with the child Support a parent in letting go a little at a time Cheer on parents who stay strong Be patient and consistent.
I can recall many success stories of parents in the past who learned to let their kids grow up through gymnastics.
Certainly the terrible story of Jaycee Lee Dugard being abducted at age-11 will make some parents more protective.
Gymnastics Coaching.com 