Competition can be a good thing. It can teach kids how to win and lose. It can encourage kids to do their best.

But some kids are just too competitive. They treat every board game like it’s World War III. They cheat. They throw tantrums. They are rude to other players.

Could your child be too competitive? Below are some signs.

A poor competitor:

• Gets very angry if he is losing.
• Has a tantrum in the middle of a game.
• Throws things (soccer balls, cards, game pieces).
• Cries after any loss.
• Makes threats to other players.

If you see these signs, it’s time to take action. Start by talking with your child. Tell him that winning and losing are both part of life. Say you want to help him become both a better winner and a better loser.

Then talk about what makes a good winner or loser. What have other kids done that he admires? What do they do that bugs him? Help him see that he may be doing some of the same things he doesn’t like in others.

Set up chances to compete at home. When your child wins, don’t fuss too much. Pick out one thing your child did well in winning the game. “You took a risk on that hand. But it paid off.”

Sometimes, of course, your child will lose. Again, look for something positive to say such as, “That was a good strategy.” And show your child by your actions how to be a good winner.

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