Related Show: Arthur
3 Ways to Practice Being a Good Sport
Help your child learn about being a good sport by talking about the feelings behind winning and losing — and playing a game of catch.
Before You Play
Talk to your child about winning and losing. Ask: “How does it feel to win? How does it feel to lose? If you have won a game, can you imagine how the losing side must feel?” Talk about some things you can do or say as a winner like, “You played a really good game!” or “That was a close match, but maybe you’ll beat me next time.” And talk about some things you can say or do if you’re on the losing team like, “Congratulations! You’re a really good player!” or “Let’s play again sometime!”
Materials
Directions
Set the scene. Have your child imagine that they are on a sports team, like Coach Frensky's in "Arthur Makes the Team." The team is in the outfield. Here comes the ball, heading straight to Arthur. Oh, no! Arthur missed the ball . . . again. The game is over, and the team has lost. Ask your child: “What would you say to Arthur to make him feel better?”
Role-play. Have your child pretend that a doll or a stuffed animal is “Arthur.” Give your child a chance to make Arthur feel better by telling him that making a mistake is no big deal, and that the important thing about a game is to have fun. Being angry at your teammates makes it less fun for everyone.
Play a game. Play the “Good Sport Game” with your child. In this game, players toss a beanbag (or other item) to each other. Say: “Do you think you will be able to catch without a miss forever? Eventually someone will drop the beanbag. When that happens, remember what you told Arthur.” Compliment any good sport behavior that you observe.
Emotions & Self-Awareness
Social Skills
Character
- Activity Type
- Craft
- Topics