Adults can help to channel the energies of youth so that they encounter a wide variety of experiences.
Adults can play an important role in helping youth balance competition and cooperation.
Competition takes place in many settings, such as the classroom, 4-H, other youth groups and even in the home. Sports often come to mind when we think about competition. Youth, however, rarely cite winning as a reason for participating. They more often list learning new skills or physical competence, being with friends in a group, fun and excitement, or staying in shape as reasons for their involvement. Competition in itself is not a bad thing.