When Tahlia Wanted to Quit Netball

Ever Wonder

What do you do when your child tries her hardest but still feels invisible? In this episode of Ever Wonder, we meet Tahlia—a young netball player who’s committed, kind, and doing her best, but keeps getting left out on the court. The ball never comes her way, and her team doesn’t seem to notice the effort she puts in. Through Tahlia’s story, we explore how to handle unfair situations, deal with frustration, and keep showing up when things feel hard.

This episode gently builds emotional resilience, teaches kids the value of sportsmanship, and reminds them that who they are matters—even when it feels like no one sees.

Perfect for girls aged 6–10 navigating friendship dynamics, team settings, or moments of self-doubt.

Conversation Starters:

“Have you ever felt left out during a game or group activity?”

“What do you think Tahlia was feeling during the netball game?”

“Have you ever wanted to give up when something felt unfair?”

“If you were Tahlia’s teammate, what would you do differently?”

What You Can Say to Support Her Emotionally:

“It makes total sense to feel angry or sad when you try your best and don’t feel included.”
“Fairness is really important to you—and when things don’t feel fair, it can hurt deeply.”

“Even though we can’t always control what others do, we can choose how we act and what kind of person we want to be.”

“I saw how hard you worked, and your effort is something I really admire.”
What You Can Model at Home:

Name unfairness calmly: When you experience something unfair (e.g., in traffic, lines, or work), verbalize it with self-awareness: “That didn’t feel fair, and I’m frustrated, but I’m choosing not to yell or lash out.”

Talk about perseverance: Share your own stories of times you kept showing up, even when things didn’t go your way.

Point out quiet strengths: Instead of focusing only on outcomes, affirm qualities like kindness, effort, and fairness. “That was a really team-hearted thing to do.”

Practice inclusion as a family: Make space for others in conversations, games, or choices at home to model what it looks like to notice and value everyone.
💛 Enjoying the podcast? Support the show and help Laura keep creating free resources for mums and daughters by “buying me a coffee” buymeacoffee.com/everwonder.
OR please take a moment to leave a rating and review. It is so encouraging hearing how your daughter is growing, learning and connecting with those around her.

Both help other families find the show and reminds us that these gentle conversations really do matter.

For more information, or to get in touch privately, please head to www.everwonderpodcast.com

Thanks for listening — we’re so glad you’re here.