Social stories · ages 5–9 · 2-minute read

Losing a game: a good-sport social story

For children who cry, shout or quit when they lose. Big feelings are allowed; these are the small words that help.

By the Cala Luna team · Reviewed 24 October 2026 · The research behind it

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The story

Read it aloud together, one card at a time. Point to the pictures and let your child read the last card.

Pick one or two before the day, and practise them at home.

Free printable social story from calalunakids.com/social-stories/losing-a-game/

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Model losing yourself: lose on purpose, say "Oh no, I lost. Good game!", and ask to play again.
Start with short, quick games, so losing is small and there is always another round.
Mix in cooperative games, where everyone wins or loses together.
Praise good-sport moments ("you said good game!"), not just winning.

Should I let my child win?

Sometimes, to keep it fun. But children also need safe practice at losing with someone who loves them. Mix both, and show them how you lose.

What if my child throws the game?

Pause calmly, help them breathe, and try again later with a shorter game. Read the story before the next game, not straight after the upset.

We read the best free examples and guidance we could find, then wrote a shorter, simpler version in our own words: And Next Comes L: losing a game social scripts; The Watson Institute: social stories for games and sportsmanship. Not medical advice; if you are worried about your child, talk to their school or doctor.