How to Teach Your Kids Good Sportsmanship

Teaching your kids good sportsmanship early on is all a part of having a fun sports experience. It is easy for kids as well as adults that are involved in sports to get caught up in the game but there are more lessons to be gained from a good sports experience than just winning. Teaching your kids the basics of having good sportsmanship will stay with them for the rest of their lives. Having good sportsmanship doesn’t mean just one thing, it involves respect, being humble and doing your best. 

As you continue to be a role model for your kids, here are a few important lessons to teach them good sportsmanship. 

1. Be a team player

Playing sports is a great way to learn how to be a team player. As the old saying goes “there is no I in team.” Any player that has good sportsmanship is probably familiar with that phrase. A team player has a positive attitude and is respectful to others. Teach your children to keep sports fun by uplifting their teammates and listening to what others may need. The lesson your kid will get out of this is cooperation. 

2. Shake hands with the opposing team

Having good sportsmanship goes a long way. Teach your kids that after a game, win or lose, shaking hands with the other team is a sign of respect. Even in professional sports with adults, you see the opposing teams shaking hands after the game. The lesson your kid will learn from this is kindness. 

3. Don’t quit or give up

Making a mistake during a game or losing can put a damper on anyone. Teach your kids to not give up or quit and that everyone makes mistakes. As long as they know they played their best, winning or losing shouldn’t be the factor in them giving up the game. The lesson your kid will learn from this is perseverance. 

The next time you hand over your kid’s soccer cleats and jersey, let them know that to wear they’re uniform with pride, good sportsmanship is key. For more do’s and don’ts when teaching your kids good sportsmanship, check out the infographic below.