I attended my grandson's little league game this week and I was listening to the parents interact with their boys.

I believe you can cheer on your child without creating a monster. Emphasize that competition is about self-measurement and strive for excellence and not showing off. Be realistic about your child's abilities. A simple 'good job' rather than over-the-top adulation conveys that it's the effort that counts. Kids need to hear that a parent's affection doesn't hinge on their success.