Cricket, do you have a 4-H program near you? IMHO the benefits of 4-H are endless but I most appreciate the real life experiences that come from showing animals or competing in a food prep competition or building legos.
4-H has taught both my kids that success isn't always about winning, it's about learning and doing your best. Dd has lost to others in the ring for ridiculous reasons, such as the judge didn't like the color of her animal's collar. It shouldn't be like that, but that's life and sometimes you have to suck it up. Sometimes, the not-so-smart kid who really worked with his animal, wins. It's not always about brains. Effort counts!
She's learned sportsmanship and how to lose with grace. More importantly, she's learned how to win with grace.
Last edited by Agent99; 02/08/12 02:35 PM.