I know everyone loves this ad, but Im going to call it a fail. It tries to make a fair point about the subtle ways we can influence children through the words we use, then face-plants at the end by suggesting we also say shes brilliant. Over-praising any kid for their intelligence has as many issues as calling her pretty. When kids hear how smart they are their whole life, then run into something that isnt immediately easy, some struggle. Some smart kids avoid trying anything too difficult for fear of having their identity threatened. Hey, I thought you were the smart kid. Thats why schools and many educators are placing so much emphasis on hard work and resilience. When a kid runs into a problem they cant solve, do you want them to think, Im just not smart enough...or...I just didnt work hard enough. H is bombarded by our culture with messages telling her shes too big, too small, too pale, too whatever, so Im going to keep telling her shes beautiful just the way she is...and resilient, and creative, and kind, and witty, and capable. Easy for me, because its all true. So endeth the rant.
Posted on: Thu, 26 Jun 2014 02:12:32 +0000
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