As soon as children start to play youth sports, they begin to learn the basics of sportsmanship for kids. In fact, this is the best reason for young children to participate in team sports. For athletes just starting out, swapping high fives with the opposing team after a game may seem like a minor detail, not a meaningful gesture. But moments like these lay the groundwork for true team play.

Lessons in Sportsmanship for Kids

Talk to your young players about these 10 important principles of sportsmanship starting at age 5 or 6, and continue the conversation as they get older and sports get more competitive.