This is a note from Kendra Smiley about how to encourage children. I think it’s important to encourage our children in order to develop a sense of self-worth, self-confidence and self-esteem. More importantly is how we do it. Read on….
“Many people who grew up in the ’50’s say, ‘Nothing I did was ever good enough for my parents.’ Now we’re seeing the pendulum swing, and you hear from coaches and teachers …that kids have become more fragile. They don’t take criticism well,” says Roy Baumeister of FloridaStateUniversity. How can you affirm your child appropriately?
- Avoid extreme statements. Going from one extreme to another in your comments to your child is not a good idea. “You’re never good enough,” is not appropriate nor is “You are the very best in every way.”
- Help your child realize that doing his or her best does not mean they must be the best at everything.
- Offer honest and sincere encouragement. This is powerful and constructive. For example, “You did a very good job on your project,” not “I’m sure your project was the best one in the class.”
- Remember, pursuing excellence does not imply that mistakes will never occur.
- Provide eternal perspective. Our goal as parents is to encourage our children to use the gifts God has given to them in order to glorify Him; not ourselves.
This note comes from Kendra Smiley at www.KendraSmiley.com.
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