by Martie Lownsberry

Created on: June 14, 2009   Last Updated: June 15, 2009

On the sports field of the world children are taught from a young age that competition is both healthy and necessary. That in order to play they must work hard, acquire the necessary skills and give their all for their chosen sport. Any child who cannot or does not excel will be left behind to sit on the bench.

In the place that is supposed to prepare our children for the game of life, the classroom, the message is much different. Here children are taught that acquiring skills is unimportant, that working hard does not make a difference, and that excelling will not gain them personal recognition. They are taught that on the field of academic learning it is best to be equal with everyone else. That is is okay and even desirable for everyone to sit the bench.

The truth is that competition invades every aspect of life. The sooner a child learns to compete the better chance he has of making a success of his life beyond his school years. Let's take a look at some of the benefits of an academically competitive environment both during the school years and after.

Acquiring Basic Skills

A competitive environment sets high standards and goals that the students must work hard to achieve. In order to achieve those goals a student must apply himself to learning basic skills that will provide the foundation and stepping stones for future learning and successes. He must become proficient in basic writing, reading, and math skills.

While helping the student further his academic career learning these basic skills will help him beyond the school years. An adult who has acquired these basic skills will be able to read and follow directions, balance a checkbook and do a variety of other tasks that will make his life simpler and easier.

Relieves Boredom

Children's minds are active. A bored child is a disruptive child. Providing a child with a competitive environment will keep his mind engaged and develop problem solving skills.

It will lead to fewer discipline problems in the classroom and more creative learning experience for the entire class.

Higher Self Esteem

While proponents of a non competitive academic environment will argue otherwise, competition actually enhances a child's self esteem. Those students who are forced to strive to reach a goal and succeed feel good about themselves and their achievements.

Students who have a difficult time reaching a goal also benefit from increased self esteem. While these students may not rise

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