We as parents, grandparents, teachers, aunts, uncles, and adults in general have to be very careful with the words that we utter. Even more than spanking and definitely more than punishment in general, our words can scar the life of a young person indefinitely. The reason? Self-esteem is such a tricky thing.
Growing up, I took ballet for 10 years. I loved it. It was so much fun to me. When I reached about age 13 though, I felt that it was time for me to give it up. You know the only reason? I thought I was fat. I felt like I was just too fat to continue taking it. Right now, it just makes me shake my head in wonder. I was actually a normal weight for my age. Looking back on photos, I realize how skinny I was. But all it takes is number one, a comment here and there from an adult to keep this tape playing in your mind forever. Number two, being around others who are ultra skinny. You start to think that your fat when you are just the normal one.
I urge the adults who are around children often to be a good influence on them. Teach them what normal is and what is too skinny. Help them learn that they are beautiful just the way they are. You will be making a big difference in the life of some of these kids for years down the road.
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Comments: 16
My youngest came to me and said "mom, I'm crazy", I was shocked at this! He was 11 I think at this time.
I said you are no more crazy then I am! We have him in public school even though he is disabled. The kids call him crazy and some other mean nasty things that people claim is no longer seen in our society! We have are quirks is all. Are family is unique and I told him he is too!
What is normal? Society dictates to us what is normal, excepted. Only small minded, shallow people would even think of name calling etc. someone else. Even parent, teachers etc. saying negative things to children can devastate a child.
Why too we do not allow the kids to have the other computer in there bedroom or allow them on the web unsupervised. This kind of communication can hurt too and we all know on the web we really do not know who we are talking to.....
Just stopping by to wish you the very best!
Merry Christmas!
We do have to watch our words.
LOL..Danielle...I remember complaining to my friends when I was in my 20's how heavy I was at 129 lbs...now...that is a distant memory
Praise for nothing takes away any reward that later, deserved praise might offer.
Lack of praise when deserved, says they are worthless and unworthy of notice.
Let praise be loud and criticism and correction be quiet.