While nearly 60 percent of America is upset, according to CSN news, at what has been called the softening of our children, as epitomized by the image that ‘'every child Gets a trophy," it is ironic to find where the origin of this of this perception was born. My experience as an educator is that all but the most progressive charter schools, in the public school sector, continue to reward kids materially for better work done than the others in the class, behaviorally and academically. Parents can rest at ease, competition is alive and well in the classroom.

Education science takes a different view of this reality, but that is another story.

Where did 'every child gets a trophy' originate

However, as sports capitalism continues to evolve in our communities an interesting phenomenon has developed. Entrepreneurs that have created after-school sports programs have crowded out the marketplace vying for 'child leisure time activity dollars'. A fallout of this is the perception of "every child gets a Trophy." How did this come about? Business organizations from the YMCA down to the local flag football league have created more business competition for the leisure "child" dollar than parents have to spend. This natural business competition created more inclusiveness in these organizations, by necessity.

And, this is by and large a good thing.

We all want every child to participate

Parents that would heretofore never consider enrolling their, bookish, autistic range, or physically challenged child in sports programs, are being aggressively courted. There are thousands of sports organizations, gyms, clubs, and camps across the country competing for these kids.

In order to attract this ever increasing outlier population, the entrepreneur has increasingly emphasized the experience, inclusivity, and participation. This is what is driving the perception of Every Child gets a trophy. It is not liberalism, it’s not political correctness, it is pure capitalism.

With thousands of taekwondo, flag football, and t-ball organizations in communities all across the country, there are plenty of options for parents.

There are competitive leagues and there are recreational leagues. This information is available to parents right up front when they enroll their kids. No one needs to be a "hater" on recreational leagues that promote more recognition for those that simply participate. Simply know your kid, and if they like to mix it up a little more, enroll in the more competitive (though usually more expensive) environment for your child.

There really is no downside

By and large, the inclusivity movement that has been growing in recreational athletics has been a good thing. More kids will grow up to be physically active adults. I believe that every non-athlete that gets to feel the thrill of making a basket or running down the field, catching a pass, or karate chopping a plywood plank, may find a way to be a physically active adult.
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