Many parents preach about the many benefits of sports for young children. Emotionally, they have been thought to build confidence, leadership and foster cooperation. Physically, they are heralded as promoting coordination, motor skills and muscle/heart health. Parents often believe that “in today’s competitive environment” sports help prepare us for this “dog eat dog” world.
Often, the reality is that people are more likely to be competing with themselves rather than others.  Competition in young children can actually encourage them to become selfish, narcissistic and inwardly-focussed rather than have compassion or empathy for others.  Many parents think that the benefits to self-esteem are reason enough for their kids to attempt to excel in a sport that suits their physical abilities the best.

The kids and I spent a wonderful day in the sun at the first annual Kid Walk in Nelson BC. Again, we are so blessed in our little mountain community to have government and nfp organizations willing to support meaningful family programs. Loaded with fun, everyone has been talking about all the new activities the kids were able to experience. And no barrier to entry, everything was free.
Our first stop was a visit inside an ambulance and our 3-year-old daughter learned about 9-1-1. It hadn’t struck me to teach this yet, but she is capable of hitting the right numbers so it can’t hurt to know. The scary siren and flashing lights sent us off to kick soccer balls, with some free lessons thrown in. …

In our society, there is generally a high value placed on being competitive not only at home, but in the workplace, sports and even within relationships. Competition is said to “build character” and “achieve excellence” and overcome laziness – it is a very normal way to demonstrate our success as humans.  Competitive sports are thought to be great for “team building” and working together towards a goal. Trophies and prizes are handed out regularly to children at sporting events, or even at school. I grew up playing sports and believe the physical activity is of great benefit – as an average athlete, I was master of none. As parents we read some Waldorf findings about children being introduced to sport too early because: 1) they …