How to Tame a Child Who Is Super Competitive?

Competition can be fun as long as it doesn't cause undue stress. If your child always has to win, or becomes anxious and distressed at the thought of not winning at something, it may be time to help him dial it back. Being too competitive can be stressful, according to Kids Health. In addition, it can negatively impact your child's ability to perform well, which further propels the cycle. Helping your child tame his overly competitive nature will benefit him in the long run.

Instructions

    • 1

      Show interest and support, not pressure. There is a difference between attending your child's competitive events and putting pressure on him to always win, according to Kids Health. Examples of pressure include arguing with your son's coach or the game referees; punishing your child for not playing well; and talking about the competition as if his performance in it is what will make or break his success in life. Let him know you enjoy watching him play regardless of the outcome, and then sit back and watch.

    • 2

      Avoid expectations of perfection. Whether your child is competing in a spelling bee or running a marathon, if your daily life portrays a perfectionist attitude, he will pick up on it and expect perfection from himself. When he falls short, he will internally or externally berate his perceived failure, which will negatively impact his self-esteem. Let him see you make mistakes and move past them. He will learn it is OK to enjoy the process without having to win.

    • 3

      Have him choose fun activities that are not competitive. He will learn life can be enjoyed without a prize at the end of each effort. Riding bikes, fishing, drawing and other activities can be enjoyed simply for the sake of doing them. Encourage him to invite friends along on such activities to further tame his need to compete.

    • 4

      Seek possible underlying causes. According to child specialist Patty Wipfler, founder, program director, and trainer at handinhandparenting.org, excessive competition is sometimes triggered by an earlier emotional trauma. A separation from a parent, a serious illness or anything else that left your child feeling helpless could lay dormant for years and then rear its head in competition. Being the best makes him feel in control and less scared.

      .

    2. Previous:

    Next:

    • Games to Practice Listening Skills
      Listening skills are an essential part of communication that are important for children as well as adults. A child who learns to listen well when she is small will do well in social settings, school and as an adult. You can develop your child’s
    • Fun Activities for School Agers
      Puzzles, board games and books are always great activities for school age children. Other activities are simply around the house and require very little preparation. School agers desire to be part of adults worlds. Invite children in and teach a few
    • How to Teach Autistic Children to Behave Around Dogs
      Having a pet in the family provides an autistic child safety, companionship and a way to decrease anxiety. A study released by the MIRA Foundation, a non-profit organization that teams service dogs with individuals who have developmental or physical