Kids are playing competitive sports and doing competitive activities at younger and younger ages. In my own home town, they have introduced “tot soccer” for 3 and 4-year-old children. With all of the increased focus on competition, I think it is important that parents try to balance that out with some noncompetitive games too. While I acknowledge that we live in a competitive, capitalistic society, I do think that there are plenty of people skills and self-esteem building that comes from noncompetitive games and play for children. It doesn’t always have to be about winning and beating out the opponent. … Continue reading →