Stormborn posted:ksazma posted:No matter what. Never put your kids down and never allow anyone else to do so. Always find the right words to convey your best thoughts. I remember when my kids were playing basketball, a hit was always a good shot and a miss was always a nice try. Even now I got my son a car similar to what his sister has so he feels just as equal even though his grades are much more superior to hers. I am hoping that if I do nothing else right, I want to ensure that I make only good choices when it comes to the kids. And they know that there is no pressure on their grades except that they are As. 😀
I believe in tough love. If your child is a skulker you tell him to his/her face he/she is and to buckle up. You do not want to raise a parasite or a predator.
I don’t disagree. Unfortunately I wasn’t placed in the position to mete out tough love. You are right that sugar coating things is dangerous. I may suggest some early sugar coating while still assessing if the issue is isolated. If it is more prolonged or serious, then tough love may be the only alternative. Don’t get me wrong. My kids are far from perfect but thankfully far from problematic also.