How do YOU feel about competition in early childhood?

Here’s what a couple experts share from both perspectives:

CON: By definition, not everyone can win a contest. If one child wins, another cannot. Competition leads children to envy winners, to dismiss losers. Co-operation, on the other hand, is marvelously successful at helping children to communicate effectively, to trust in others and to accept those who are different from themselves. Children feel better about themselves when they work with others instead of against them, and their self-esteem doesn’t depend on winning a spelling test or a Little League game.
American Alfie Kohn, author of No Contest:The Case Against Competition

PRO: Healthy competition inspires kids to do their best – not just good enough. When students compete they will become more inquisitive, research independently, and learn to work with others. They will strive to do more than is required. These abilities prepare children for future situations of all kinds. Whether it’s applying to college, seeking a promotion, or finding a cure for cancer, the ability to be competitive will give them an important edge.
Jennifer Veale, founder and executive director of TrueCompetition.org

At Wee Friends, we acknowledge the natural tendency to compete with respect. Today, a friend came in and shared: “I wore this necklace so my friend will be jealous!”. We acknowledged this friend’s competitive motivation and redirected it by asking; “Would you like to show your friend how to MAKE the same necklace, so you can both enjoy the work and each other?” “YES!” was her response. So out came the penne pasta. First, we created necklaces. We studied the shape of the pasta and discussed the word “penne”. We found its origin, and then we made pens (quills) with our pasta. We tried them out and they wrote beautifully.

In another part of the classroom, Lisa played a game of “Go Fish!” Friends were adamant about being first. Lisa explained how to take turns so that everyone gets a chance to play, whether they are first or last. They understood. They agreed. They played.

Finn and Elliott spent most of their morning devising a Coast Guard boat that would support their weight. They brainstormed. They executed. They patched up the previous problem. They tried again.

 

We build. We fall. We rebuild. We succeed. We compete and we collaborate. We cultivate.

Have a great day. –Laurie

Wee Sprouts: Carrots. Breakfast: Cheerios and orange slices. Lunch: Penne pasta with red beans, apple slices and carrots/cucumbers. Snack: Graham crackers and peanut butter.