School sports are fun and the exercise is healthy, but competition creates emotional risks for children and adults, said Brittney Schrick, assistant professor and extension family life specialist for the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture. Schrick said, “Competition can also be damaging; it can make people feel hopeless, and it can distract from the inner satisfactions of work and learning.”

Keeping competition in a healthy perspective for kids is essential, Schrick said. There are several tactics parents can follow to encourage their children to participate in sports and other competitive events in a healthy manner.

Refrain from labeling. Some parents label kids unintentionally. Unfortunately, even positive labels can backfire.