Approaching Athletic Development & Competition in Children Ages 3-6 - Play-First Foundations with Chandler Lewis

How do you know when your child is ready for competition — and how do you make sure it stays fun? In this first episode of a four-part series on youth sports readiness, host Perry Wirth welcomes back returning guest Chandler Lewis — sports psychologist, personal trainer, and competitive swim coach who has guided thousands of kids from their very first lesson to high-level meets.

This installment focuses on the 3–6 age range, where play and movement lay the foundation for lifelong athletic growth.

You’ll learn:

• The big differences between ages 3–4 vs. 5–6 in sports readiness.
• How the PIES framework (physical, intellectual, emotional, social) shapes growth.
• Why play and movement skills come before scores and medals.
• Signs your child may be ready for low-stakes competition — and how to keep it stress-free.
• The crucial do’s and don’ts for parents: what to praise, what to avoid, and how to set kids up for long-term success.

Chandler combines expertise in sports psychology with years of coaching one of Wisconsin’s largest swim programs. He’s worked with kids as young as four all the way to future Olympians, giving him a rare perspective on what truly matters in an athlete’s early years. Through his work at Schroeder Aquatic Center and Championship Mind, he helps young athletes — and their parents — build resilience, confidence, and joy in sport.

If you’re a parent or coach of a 3–6 year old, this episode is your roadmap to balancing play, development, and early competition without the pressure.

Connect with Chandler

• Swim Program: [e-mail]
• Sports Psychology: championshipmind.com | [e-mail]

Stay tuned for more conversations that go beyond the mats.