Sunday, 2 March 2008

Strengths

So, apparently there is some person telling us to celebrate our kids for their strengths (wow i managed to make a link!!!). Which makes sense to me; I'm sick of the cultural idea that kids are only here to cause parents trouble until they leave home and then take care of themselves...
It's ok for parents to criticize their children about how bad their behaviour is, what they haven't done and well basically anything, but it seems that you are admonished if you actually try to praise your child's strengths.
Some how saying that your child didn't find this weeks spellings hard is equated to 'my child is better than yours' or 'what a thicko you have on your hands'. Where did all this competition of smarts come from? Why is it made to seem that having a child that is good at maths and science is better than having a child that is good at art?, or diplomacy?, or an active interest in the environment? I guess it is directly related to what kind of job you will get and therefore the money you will earn. As if money is the perfect solution to everything!!

Anyhoo...so onto strengths...

Kayne:
Cares for his sister
Is around 2-3 years ahead in Maths, Reading, possibly science
Taught himself to read between 2yr old and 3
Phenomenal memory
Very funny - has his 'Adult Phrasebook'
Has his own opinions and sticks to them
Competent on the PC
Aware of other peoples feelings
Very quick learner

Lani:
Very loving
Happy baby
Knows her own mind
Is aware of her own personal space.
Loves music

1 comment:

Heather said...

I remember in kindergarten, chatting with a few other class moms before school got out. They were all talking of the hard time their kids were having learning to spell colors. I kept my mouth shut at how Payton didn't even have to practice for fear of being *that* mom.

If you dig below feelings of competition, I think most people would find insecurity, and that's the root of the backlash. JMO though!

Yay for smart kids! sounds like you have two on your hands!