After dealing with her challenge, Jeannie bounces back with a perfect ten attitude. Know Competition is a healthy way for kids to expand their talents. But kids that think the trophy holder is the only winner could run into problems. Experts say that parents should do some key things to make sure kids understand that It s not whether you win or lose, it s why you play the game. Dr. James Millhouse, sports psychologist, says that when kids focus too much on the outcome rather than the process, a simple loss can ruin the entire activity.
Parents also can explain that failure is a key ingredient to success.
By reminding kids that even the top athletes in the country failed at some point Michael Jordan was cut from his high school basketball team kids will hopefully learn that set backs and losses are a part of the game. Also, parents can show consistent enthusiasm, regardless of the scoreboard. By noticing that a child played well or seemed to have a good time, rather than who won, parents can remind their kids why they play the game to have a good time. Talking to children about a recent failure should be done with diligence, experts say. The moments after a disappointment may not be the best time to discuss the problem.