Children playing "Pin The Tail On The Donkey”
I personally feel a little fun competition at a party is O.K.. but some kids can’t handle losing. A game where there are winners and losers is too stressful for these kids. So much that they will refuse to participate. I have seen kids tremble when they sense someone else is going to win. It’s as if their whole self worth has just gone down the toilet. Because of this, I have chosen to down play the competitive aspect of party games so there are no obvious winners or losers. Only because in my business I am the one who is suppose to bring the happiness. I can’t have any unhappy guests. Some parents feel I should not change things because the games are fun and there’s always going to be some kid sulking over something. It’s always something. It’s true…there’s no pleasing those kids…(and some parents). However I would rather not set up a situation where these kids have the excuse to sulk…or cry… or have a complete melt down. That’s right…no more “Pin the Tail on the Donkey” No more “Musical Chairs”. No more “Bean Bag Toss” etc etc.. Some parents suggest I give everyone a prize no matter who wins. That would diminish the victory of the child who actually earned her prize. Perhaps the age of the children need to be taken into consideration when choosing games. The disappointment of losing requires maturity. But I have seen older children and teenagers become nervous wrecks at the thought of losing. Have you ever seen parents at a hockey game when their kid’s team is losing? Wow.
Girl enjoying a card matching game at a
princess tea party
princess tea party
Some schools have eliminated competitive activities to protect the self esteem of children. Are we breeding mediocrity here? Like they don’t think these kids will figure it out when they grow up and find out the world awards the best? Self esteem and confidence is built from accomplishments. A little at a time, reaching your goals and being proud of your achievements. Competition awards excellence. You earned it, you deserved it. Great! Congratulations! Instead of eliminating competitive activities they should have programs in place to build children’s self esteem. And what would these programs entail? How ‘bout service. Here is a piece of advice from the wise:
"Our sense of self-worth is also key to being able to appreciate the other factors of fulfillment. Interestingly, feeling compassion for others is the most reliable way to increase our own self-worth" Dalai Lama
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