Which practice is emphasized as most important during a game to support a child's empowerment?

• A. Verbal criticism to motivate.
• B. Modeling appropriate behavior, confidence, and poise.
• C. Taking over decisions for the child
• D. Ignoring the child's needs.

Answer: (B)

Empowerment during a game comes from what the adult demonstrates in the moment. Modeling appropriate behavior, confidence, and poise gives a child a concrete example of how to handle pressure, mistakes, and competition with dignity. When a coach or parent remains calm, communicates respectfully, and shows belief in the child’s abilities, the child learns self-regulation, resilience, and effective focus. This live demonstration helps the child develop autonomy and intrinsic motivation because they internalize how to respond under stress rather than just being told what to do.

Verbal criticism, taking over decisions, or ignoring the child’s needs send signals that the child isn’t trusted to manage the moment or that effort isn’t enough, which can undermine empowerment. In contrast, steady modeling provides a secure template for action, guiding the child to trust their own judgment, stay engaged, and continue to grow through the game.