there is nothing wrong with recognizing participation and those of us with kids understand the pride of watching your kid get out there and try something.
i really dont care if my kid wins or loses, i care about about how the opportunity will impact their social and physical development.
if they put in the practise time, made the effort to improve their skills, and respect the coaches and teammates, this is what sport and participation is about and positive reinforcement is not "coddling losers".
when my son or daughter spend months practising their karate and then get up in front of 5 black belts and perform their kata, you are darn right I will celebrate their bravery and effort, even if they are last in their group.
when my son or daughter get into a kumate and fight kids who may be bigger or faster, but they dont back down and try their best, i will again celebrate their bravery and effort, even if like my daughter they go an entire belt level without gaining a single point.
if you dont think your kids should know how proud you are of them just because they didnt finish with a medal, then I really dont know what to say.
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