The Five Behaviors of Successful Kids—and How SC Wave Helps Build Them

A recent Newsweek article highlighted five powerful behaviors that children often show when they’re on track to become successful adults. What stood out most is that each of these behaviors can be intentionally developed—they aren’t innate traits or talents. They’re skills. Muscles kids can strengthen over time.

At SC Wave, these values align deeply with our mission and our core values of Focus, Perseverance, Mastery, and Positive Environment. Through baseball, we help athletes not only improve their game but build the character and mindset needed for lifelong success.

Here’s how the five behaviors highlighted in Newsweek connect to what we do every single day.

1. Emotional Regulation and Focus

Newsweek explains that children who can manage their emotions and sustain attention gain an advantage not only in school but throughout life. As Suria notes, “Self-regulation is so important… being able to manage your emotions and sustain attention is critical.”

Baseball demands this skill. At SC Wave, we build it through our core value of Focus. Between at-bats, after errors, during pressure moments—kids learn to breathe, reset, and stay present. We teach athletes how to manage frustration, stay mentally organized, and play with clarity even when the stakes are high.

These on-field habits become life habits. Focus is a muscle—and we train it.

2. Perseverance and the Ability to Bounce Back

Whether it’s dealing with bullying, handling a disappointing grade, or navigating conflict with friends, resilient kids develop what Newsweek calls a “robust toolbox” for long-term success.

Suria emphasizes, “Being able to bounce back when things get tough… to physically and emotionally get back up when things are hard.”

This is the essence of Perseverance, a cornerstone of the SC Wave experience. Baseball constantly provides moments of adversity: slumps, strikeouts, tough innings, and hard losses. Instead of shying away, our athletes learn to rise—again and again.

Every challenge becomes an opportunity to strengthen resilience.

3. Curiosity and a Willingness to Work Hard

Another strong predictor of future achievement is a child’s readiness to put in consistent effort—even when tasks are difficult. As Suria explains, “That consistency goes a long way.” Curiosity, too, fuels long-term growth: “You have to be a lifetime learner.”

This is where Mastery comes in at SC Wave. We teach players to love the process: asking questions, trying new techniques, receiving coaching, and embracing repetition. Mastery isn’t about perfection—it’s about curiosity, progress, and the daily work that leads to real improvement.

Our players become problem-solvers, thinkers, and students of the game—and of life.

4. Cognitive Flexibility and the Ability to Pivot

Kids who can adapt quickly tend to navigate challenges with greater ease. Newsweek highlights the importance of pivoting when plans change and being able to approach situations from multiple angles.

Suria explains, “Being able to approach something in a different way or pivot when a plan doesn’t go as expected is a great sign.”

Baseball reinforces cognitive flexibility constantly: adjusting to different pitchers, reading plays, modifying swing mechanics, or shifting roles on the team. At SC Wave, coaches encourage flexible thinking and adaptability. We help players understand that plans don’t always unfold perfectly—but strong athletes adjust, learn, and stay confident.

This mindset equips them for transitions far beyond the diamond.

5. Prosocial Behavior and Teamwork Skills

The ability to collaborate, take feedback, and work well with others is a major predictor of success. Newsweek notes that skills like turn-taking, perspective-taking, cooperation, and group contribution are essential.

“Being part of a team and adding value is a great skill. Not everyone is a leader, and that’s okay,” Suria says.

SC Wave builds this through our Positive Environment. We emphasize respect, communication, shared success, and healthy team dynamics. Families, coaches, and players all play essential roles. By learning how to support teammates, accept coaching, and contribute positively to group goals, our athletes develop social skills that benefit them throughout life.

We don’t just build players—we build great teammates and great humans.

No Perfect Formula—Just Growth

One of the article’s most encouraging reminders is that kids can learn and build these skills over time. Suria explains that there’s no “perfect sauce”—these are muscles that grow with practice.

At SC Wave, we believe the same.Every athlete develops at their own pace. Every child deserves grace. And every season is a chance to strengthen the tools that set them up for lifelong success.

SC Wave: Where Baseball Builds the Whole Child

When we focus on perseverance, focus, mastery, and a positive environment, we’re doing more than coaching baseball—we’re helping kids develop the five core behaviors that Newsweek identifies as the foundation for future success.

We are proud to build strong athletes, stronger character, and the confidence kids need to thrive—on the field and far beyond it.