When to Let Your Kid Quit (and When Not to)

Life Hacker – Catherine Pearlman

This week, after only two practices, my 11-year-old son quit basketball. Before the season, he was genuinely excited to play (which is sort of remarkable when one considers his three-year lifetime record is 0-27), so I paid the money and requested his uniform. And still, I practically encouraged him to quit. Three years ago, I signed my daughter up for water polo. She had never been on a team in her life, but with puberty impending I thought she should get some exercise. Through tears, anxiety attacks and a good deal of nudging, my daughter was made to push through a tough start. Although she wanted to quit many times, I wouldn’t allow her to ditch the team. Now, three years later, water polo is her life. Why the different approaches for my kids? (more)