Re-evaluating the “Winning Gene”: Fostering an Inclusive Spirit in growing Children

I recently attended a 4-year-old’s birthday party where the children were full of energy, laughter, and play. Amidst the fun, I noticed a troubling trend: when some children lost a game, they became visibly upset, running to their parents in tears or refusing to play again. This got me thinking—are we instilling a competitive “winning gene” in young children, and is that always healthy?

?Take the classic game of musical chairs. In this version, if you don’t get a chair when the music stops, you lose. The competitive aspect is clear, but it often leaves kids feeling disheartened. However, I read about a beautiful variation of the game played in Japan. Here, children are encouraged to help others find a seat—if they don’t, they lose. This version promotes empathy and teamwork over individual victory, fostering a spirit of inclusion.

?This got me wondering: could we incorporate such values into the games we play with our children? In a world that often celebrates individual success, it’s important to teach the value of lifting others up. By focusing on cooperation, empathy, and inclusion, we can nurture a generation that understands true success lies in helping others succeed.

?Instead of pushing children to compete at all costs, let’s encourage games that celebrate community, shared success, and kindness. After all, the best kind of winning is the one where everyone is included.

In a world where we often celebrate individual success, let us embrace the power of inclusivity, cooperation and kindness in every game- and in life.