Do you take your child for competitions?

I don't take my children to competitions, per se, but I do encourage them to try out for things where they are competing against other children. My 11 year old daughter loves theatre. Even though she is shy, she shines on stage. I find out when auditions are, talk them up to her for weeks, and go with her to try out. She has had several pretty big parts. I also encourage her to do things like recitals and talent shows. If she isn't very good at something, but wants to try out for it anyway (like sports), I let her try, but talk to her first about how not everybody makes it, and it's okay if she doesn't make the team, as long as she always does her best. She has really come out of her shell and developed confidence in the last couple of years. If my boys (ages 8 and 6) want to try something, I am all for it, as long as it fits into our family schedule. They are involved in cub scouts, and have both played t-ball. I look at their personalities, desire for the activity, and ability to stick with something before we commit. I don't push, but let them make decisions about their activities. Kids have enough stress without their parents constantly pushing them to be over achievers. We need to be their safety net and coach. There to help them, encourage them, and catch them if they fall.