Rick Epstein describes his daughter Marie's experiences as the newest and youngest member of a competitive softball team. This is a game her father loved to play as a kid so Marie is reluctant to convey how miserable she is. Later, he sees her enthusiastically play ball at a family picnic. Rick then realizes that actually it is the high level of competition Marie dislikes. His story points out how we can confuse encouragement and support with soft spoken demands that lead our kids to become involved in activities they tolerate rather than enjoy. Keep communication open with your kids to minimize misunderstandings.
(adapted from "Field of Bad Dreams" April, 2006 Tidewater Parent Magazine)
For more information visit:

www.search-institute.org
www.connectforkids.org
www.aboutourkids.org