All My Children

Participation in sports and competition can have many benefits for children: developing strength and coordination, acquiring self-discipline, learning cooperation and sportsmanship, and building friendships. But these activities also have the potential to cause physical injury; generate considerable stress or permanent emotional scars; and nourish a host of negative attitudes, including elitism, hostility, and an obsession with winning. To maintain balance and build positive experiences through sports, revisit the following questions on a regular basis:dren: developing strength and coordination, acquiring self-discipline, learning cooperation and sportsmanship, and building friendships. But these activities also have the potential to cause physical injury; generate considerable stress or permanent emotional scars; and nourish a host of negative attitudes, including elitism, hostility, and an obsession with winning. To maintain balance and build positive experiences through sports, revisit the following questions on a regular basis:

• Is your child really interested in this activity? You may have loved Little League, but your child may prefer soccer.
• Is your child physically and emotionally ready to practice and compete in the sport?
• Is the proper protective equipment available and used at all times?
• Do the coaches and trainers enjoy working with children, including the least skilled? Are they focused on the right attitudes and values (see below), or do they appear driven to win at all costs? Are they competent?

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