My son’s workspace boasts an impressive assortment of unearned trophies. Okay, “impressive” may be a stretch, as countless kids likely have similar collections of accolades, medals, and certificates simply for showing up. By the end of his elementary years, my son had amassed so many awards that one might think he was the most exceptional child on the planet.
To be clear, my son wasn’t the star athlete—he once requested to sit out during a football game due to an itchy uniform. At a community soccer tournament, he might have stumbled over the ball more times than a typical 8-year-old should. Nevertheless, he has a multitude of trophies that suggest otherwise.
While some children genuinely excel and earn their trophies through hard work, it seems that many simply receive recognition for merely participating. I wholeheartedly support boosting my son’s self-esteem. Did I ever react negatively when he struck out in baseball? Absolutely not! Like any caring mother, I offered him a reassuring smile and said, “Good effort!” even though he clearly wasn’t the most athletic kid, likely thanks to my own clumsy genes.
I fully endorse celebrating effort, but if there were an award for the most overconfident child (in situations where it might not be justified), he would be the undisputed champion. However, the notion of handing out trophies just for participation clashes with my beliefs about fostering true confidence.
If your child hasn’t truly earned a trophy, why should they receive one? Does it genuinely enhance their self-esteem, or does it simply suggest that mediocrity is acceptable? Are we nurturing a generation that believes that mere attendance merits recognition? For instance, a college professor friend of mine has received multiple emails from parents inquiring why their exceptionally bright children didn’t receive an A in her class. Perhaps it’s because they didn’t earn it.
I want my son to understand that he must put in the effort to achieve his goals, rather than thinking he can coast by and still receive accolades. Imagine if adulthood operated under the same principle—applying for a dream job? Just show up and it’s yours. Want to gain acceptance into a prestigious PhD program? Every applicant receives a letter of acceptance.
This isn’t to say that we shouldn’t support our children or encourage them to participate in various activities. Next time your little one feels disheartened because their friend won first place at a swim meet and they didn’t receive a trophy, gently explain that not everyone can win all the time. That shiny plastic trophy may glimmer, but “winning” it just for being there doesn’t motivate your child to strive for success. I adore my son and want the best for him.
I certainly don’t want to be contacting his college professors in ten years to argue for an A on his assignments. Instead, I hope he learns the value of hard work and dedication to truly reach his aspirations. For more insights on home insemination, check out this post or visit this authority for pregnancy announcements. Additionally, this resource provides excellent information on treating infertility.
In summary, while it’s important to support our children and celebrate their efforts, we must also instill in them the understanding that achievements require dedication and hard work. Trophies for mere participation may inflate their confidence, but true growth comes from earning their place through merit.