How to Raise a Team Player

Working in a team is a big part of our overall development, and as children we learn how to work well with others and give the best support we can. It’s part of learning how to be a team player, and many independent schools will provide your child with the means to know how to work effectively in teams. Here are some tips you can try at home to help with your child’s progress.

Work on your child’s communication skills

Communication is going to be key when your child is young. They need to know how to pick up social cues, when they believe they should interject in a conversation, and learn to respect when others are speaking. It also means your child should know how other forms of communication work, like body language and other gestures. Show your child how these can work for them in a range of ways that will help them learn how to use them in team settings.

Show your child how to solve problems effectively

When you’re in a team you will find that a lot of problems have to be solved quickly and in real time. If your child can’t do this, they may panic and fall behind, which can cause issues for a team that wants to do well. Play a range of team-based activities at home, such as board games, football in the back garden, or heading out to the park with the family.

Remind your child that winning isn’t critical every time

Teams always want to win, or at least try their best to do so. It’s a hard thing to achieve and it can put a lot of pressure on children to keep themselves focused and engaged. 

This is why you should remind them that it’s okay to lose. Being a good team player also means your child should learn how to smile and accept what happened, and move forward.