Helping “The Last Boys Picked” : Accommodating Non-Athletic Boys in Elementary Education

Helping “The Last Boys Picked” : Accommodating Non-Athletic Boys in Elementary Education

In the agonizing moments before their names are called, those last boys picked for the kickball or basketball team during gym, or its un-legislated twin—recess—are getting a tutorial in what it means to be considered a liability. Alternating turns, the team...
Boys Will be Boys? Just A Lousy Excuse for Bad Behavior

Boys Will be Boys? Just A Lousy Excuse for Bad Behavior

For too long this familiar adage —  “boys will be boys”  — has served as nothing more than a thin disguise for poor behavior that boys and men should have long outgrown or never developed in the first place. Countless acts of cruelty, bullying, teasing, assault,...

“My son refuses to participate in sports or go to practice. Do I insist or not?” Demonstrating respect without enabling

  Your son is making it very clear that he doesn’t want to play or go to practice. He might be adamant, anxious, even tearful. Saying to him Okay, we’ll pass on it feels too soft and all but promises a repeat performance the next time your son’s supposed to...

“My son hates sports but I want him to try some new ones. How do I know if I’m encouraging him or pushing him?”  Discovering what’s right for your son

    You’re getting ready to load your son and his gear into the car and notice that he’s gone back into the house for what must be his fifteenth trip to the bathroom. When he comes out, his eyes are red and watery. He tells you that he doesn’t feel well....

What Am I Teaching My Son If I Let Him Quit Playing Sports Just Because He’s Afraid of the Ball?

  You are teaching him… that you respect him, even if you don’t understand his choices. that you will listen closely to what he says and take it at face value. that it pays to speak up. that he doesn’t have to disguise his real feelings in order to gain or...