Maybe I watch too many crime dramas on TV, but I suspect some of the plots have at least a little reality behind them. Like the boy who beats up his girlfriend in a 'roid rage . . . A rage induced by the steroids he was taking to improve his game (baseball, I think) so he could impress his dad and win a scholarship.
Reality? Probably exaggerated, but I've seen plenty of parents push their kids to win at all costs, yell at them for blowing a play or make the "prize" the be all and end all of their kids' participation.
As parents, we all want to see our child succeed. Medals, honors and scholarships are great but are these recognitions the best, or only, ways to define success?
Look for small accomplishments
Children have a different perspective than we do. A "small thing" like fielding a grounder may be huge to a child who's afraid of a baseball. Feeling good about her accomplishment, and herself, is definitely success.Look past the rewards and awards
Some children have natural skill that will quickly earn them awards. Others have to work at it. Remember, the work, dedication and drive your child exhibits, whether or not he takes home the prize, are definitely success.Look at the skills developed along the way
One great reason for your child to join an club is to learn new skills. Did she learn something in the course of the season? A new skill is definitely success.So what about the rewards and awards?
Every child likes to take home the big prize, and every parent likes to see their kid win. It's a big moment and it's exciting.But win or lose, be proud of everything you're child's done to get where he is. I guarantee you, he's succeeded along the way. There is so much more to participating then the trophy. Look for it. Find it. And let your child know he's a success.