Unfortunately competition is often misinterpreted. When defined it really means comparing your ability to that of another person or team. It is the foundation by which this country has become one of the greatest in the world. Mistranslated, it becomes winning or losing - not trying and developing.

Without realizing it, parents often begin to sacrifice their child's welfare and growth for the opportunity to win a game, be on a championship team, or win a trophy. Given the choice between a wholesome growth experience that may leave long range personal value and winning the championship, parents often confuse the former with the latter. That is not to say they cannot both happen. It is to say that they are not the same, and parents should not confuse the medal with a positive growth experience.

Here are some practical suggestions to keep sport in perspective for your child.

1. Continue to check with your child that he is enjoying the sport, learning about competition in the process and growing and developing as a result of the experience.

2. Check to see if your child's coach, the league and the by-laws involved in your sport do not directly or covertly emphasize winning over growth and development.

3. Talk to other parents about their attitude toward their child's experience with regard to personal development.

4. Do not, yourself, become preoccupied with championships, but instead look at what the other benefits of sport might be and how children are being trained in your league.

5. Be sure to check your own attitude and conscience as to whether or not winning is a personal obsession.

Winning is important; that cannot be denied. But it is a yardstick of progress - not the final measure. You as a parent have to make that distinction.

Conclusion
It is very important to remember that you are a role model. As a parent you represent a guide to your children. What you do to and for your children becomes a standard, and they in turn may be practicing the same parenting in later years. It is important to remember that the game belongs to the child. It is for his growth and development as well as enjoyment. We, as parents, should be mature overseers.