Should siblings play on the same sports teams?

Q: I have friends who sign their kids up for extracurricular activities and do so by placing the siblings on the same team. Sure, it saves time and most likely money, but is it really healthy and emotionally good for the kids?

A: My 8-year-old twin boys have played on the same teams for sports for the past three years. So far, it has worked well for our family. Once they get older and ask to be on different teams, we will probably think about it at that time. Currently, it certainly does make life easier all the way around and they seem to be thriving well. -- Fran G. in Hollywood, Calif. `

FROM JODIE:

If having your kids on the same team does not cause any arguments among your children, there is no need for concern. So?long as they are not complaining and the coach is satisfied with their performance, there is probably not a need to worry.

It could turn into a healthy competition between the two. However, if one child is clearly more talented and does far better than the other one, this could go one of two ways. The better of the two may get a tad cocky or the one who cannot quite measure up may become frustrated and basically give up. Look for signs of tension, arguing or jealousy.

If these become apparent, separating the children by putting them on different teams will most likely work out best. If money and time constraints become an issue, either talk with them about allowing one child to play a specific sport while the other one sits out a season and vice-versa for the other one the next season, or perhaps ask for a certain amount of money from relatives for birthday gifts or holidays to help fund the endeavors, if the kids agree.

As long as parents, family members and friends show support for both children, it should be a good experience for both kids whether or not they are on the same team.

CAN YOU HELP?

Every time we go out to dinner, there always seems to be a family where the kids are loud, crude and out of control. They are either running around spilling things, throwing food, complaining or arguing among themselves. Should we ask the waiter or the manager to mention this to the parents or should we say something ourselves? My husband wants to go directly to the parents and tell them to get a handle on the situation. I think we should approach our server and ask that they talk to the manager. What is the best approach in this situation?

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Source: http://www.stltoday.com/lifestyles/relationships-and-special-occasions/parenting/should-siblings-play-on-the-same-sports-teams/article_f83565ce-d012-11e1-821b-0019bb30f31a.html

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