Sometimes our therapists intentionally beat kids at the games they’re playing.
Why?
Because learning to lose is an important life skill, too. When an occupational therapist gives a child opportunities to practice losing, they may be helping them work on:
- Emotional regulation when things don’t go their way
- Flexible thinking when plans change
- Frustration tolerance during difficult tasks
- Good sportsmanship with peers
- Problem-solving after mistakes
Board games, soccer, obstacle courses, relay races, and other activities can give kids a safe place to experience disappointment, manage frustration, stay flexible, and practice being a good sport when things don’t go their way.
The goal is to help children build skills they can use outside of therapy too, whether they’re playing with friends, participating in sports, working through something difficult at school, or dealing with an unexpected change at home.
Sometimes that lesson starts with losing a soccer game to your therapist. ⚽
If your child struggles with emotional regulation, frustration tolerance, flexibility, or other everyday skills, pediatric occupational therapy may be able to help. Contact Rehab Specialists of Idaho to learn more.