Great expectations: Let your child be
Summary
Parents and schools are being urged to move beyond empty praise and focus on meaningful achievement to build children’s self-esteem. The piece argues that children thrive when they are treated as capable, purposeful beings and given room to develop their own aptitudes.
Key Points
- The self-esteem movement has encouraged parents and schools to reward children with praise and trophies even for minimal effort.
- Critics argue that self-esteem should come from achievement, responsibility, and healthy relationships rather than empty affirmation.
- The article warns that excessive parental pressure can damage children and contribute to aggression, rebellion, or even self-harm.
- Children should be allowed to develop according to their own aptitudes instead of being forced into parents’ expectations.
