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Original poster

Should you let your child win, or play to win every time?

27 replies

Parker1970 · 13/06/2025 08:34

How do y’all play with your little ones when it comes to backyard games? I’ve always been a little confused on what the difference is between letting your kiddos win and handicapping. Are those the same exact thing? I’m just curious because I read an article online about it which I can provide if y’all would like. But anyways now I’m curious what everyone else does for these activities? Could you possibly give an example so I can understand?

I am making an edit real quick. What I mean by backyard games is that of outside games.

OP posts:
FloraBotticelli · 13/06/2025 08:40

There’s probably a healthy balance - if you want to encourage learning, developing their physical/emotional skills, team spirit etc there’s a sweet spot where you’re not pushing them so hard that they get frustrated, but they’re motivated enough to improve their skills to match you and eventually defeat you. Like a carrot on a stick - hold it far enough away so they get a taste every now and again to motivate them.

I think also sometimes it’s just fun and bonding to be totally yourself, and when they’re little enough they’re in awe of your strength/speed etc. They soon lose that awe as they get older though!

DrJump · 13/06/2025 08:37

Depends on the game, the child and the day. Some days I will play to win when the child is in a good moood and feeling confident and competitive. Other days when the child needs a boost and connection I play gentler. Making the fund of playing the game most important.