Yes, that is the short answer. But it’s not about making children enter competitions. Let us explain …
This week in our classes, we focused on games and drills, which resulted in some children winning and some losing.
I know … how cruel of us!
But, it is such an important lesson for the children.
Let’s be clear, no one likes or enjoys losing.
But protecting children from experiencing loss is not the answer.
We aim to create an environment where children can try hard, win and lose and understand it is part of developing our character and learning.
Side note: there is a saying, “you win, or you learn. You do not lose.” I prefer “you only lose if you give up.” Because you can learn if you win too, but the real trick is not to give up.
Not all children will want to go to a judo competition, and that is ok.
But all children need to learn how to deal with their emotions, try harder when things are difficult and experience success.
This can be created in mini-skills games and challenges.
The key is to give all children opportunities to be the victor and the loser, as both experiences are essential for future success.
And I want to share with you one of our biggest learnings from doing this with thousands of children over the years.
They can handle it!
Most children only get set up if they feel injustice (poor decision) or do not understand what is required of them.
So we try not to shield the children from winning or losing.
We prepare them for it.
We explain expectations and help them deal with the result.
Have you noticed schools (and some other activities) trying to create environments where children do not lose?
And yet they have to sit exams every few months to rank and file the children.
Competition is part of life.
It doesn’t have to be a scary thing for children.
So we hope you and your child can enjoy being competitive (it’s not bad). Remember to set clear expectations and try to be fair.
That’s all any of us need.
Please feel free to share this post with anyone you think might benefit from it!
