You asked

Should I sometimes let my child win?

When it comes to letting children win, most parents are worried that it will harm their child in some way. However, experts agree that if you occasionally let your child win at a game, you probably won’t be doing any long term damage. As long as your child doesn’t know that you are letting him or her win that is!

There are several reasons that letting your child win too often, or letting him or her know that you are changing the rules for him or her is a bad idea. First, your child will learn that winning is more important than the rules. Secondly, your child will never learn the skill of being a good loser – something that everyone has to learn at some point during their lives.

It’s important to note, however, that allowing your child some leeway, or making a few changes to the rules together, before the game starts, is not the same as letting him or her win. It’s okay to let your child start a few spaces ahead of you, or to let your child have an extra turn – after all, he or she is younger, and doesn’t know the game as well. It’s important to agree to these changes ahead of time however, so that your child is still playing by the rules.

Play games that are fun, rather than those that encourage winning, and look for games that are based on luck rather than skill. That will level the playing field, and allow your child to discover that games are fun – even if you don’t win!

More questions

As with most activities done in excess, too much time spent on computer games and console games can negatively affect your child's development.
A preschooler may not be ready to learn the finer points of table manners, but they are old enough to understand the basics.
Young children who pick their noses incessantly may do so to relieve stress or boredom, or it’s may just be a nervous habit like nail biting. Many times, the child does not even realize they are doing it.
If you want your child to grow up with a strong spiritual foundation, it’s never too young to start teaching, but remember to teach by example.
When you catch your preschooler telling a lie, it is natural to be worried. Parents may feel that when their child lies, it reflects on their parenting abilities.
When you catch your preschooler telling a lie, it is natural to be a bit upset. A parent may think that when their child lies, it reflects on their parenting skills.
Get your child’s attention immediately by whispering to him - this let’s your child think that something fantastic is about to happen!
Four year olds generally recognise differences but can still get confused
If you really do not know how to accurately explain the birds and the bees to your child, then it would be a good idea to invest in picture book. There are some great ones available, where the experts have done all the explaining for you.
By 24 months, your child will use around 80 words and understand many more.

Latest

Trending