Children are like sponges and will absorb any information we share with them, whether it is words we say or behavior we display. When children watch everything we do, we can often teach them the wrong thing. We look at 21 things we teach children that send a terrible message.
“Don’t Cry”
Crying is a natural way to express sadness, anger, or pain. Telling children not to cry teaches them that their emotions are not valid.
“Boys Don’t Cry”
The pressure not to cry is awful for boys. This stereotype teaches boys not to express emotions such as sadness or vulnerability. It can lead to emotional problems later in life.
“You’re Too Sensitive”
Telling children they are being too sensitive invalidates children’s feelings and makes them feel like they’re not allowed to be upset. It can also lead to them bottling up their emotions, which can be harmful.
“You’re Not Good Enough”
Telling children they could do better is a very damaging message to send to children. It can make them feel insecure and doubt themselves. It is essential to celebrate the wins, however small they may be.
“You Have to Be Perfect”
Being perfect is an impossible standard to live up to and can lead to anxiety and depression. With pressure to conform to beauty and academic standards, we have to be careful with always striving to be perfect rather than enough.
“Don’t Make Mistakes”
Mistakes are a part of learning and growing. Telling children not to make mistakes teaches them they cannot take risks.
“You Have to Be Tough”
Telling children they have to stay strong teaches children that they can’t show weakness or vulnerability. It can lead to them bottling up their emotions and not seeking help.
“Don’t Talk Back”
Telling our children not to answer back teaches them that they cannot express their opinions or stand up for themselves. We should never teach our children to be rude, but when we tell them they can never challenge people, we tell them they have to accept when people are not doing right by them.
“You Have to Be Grateful for Everything You Have”
When we tell children to be grateful can make children feel guilty for wanting more or dissatisfied with their lives. Yes, there are people worse off us, but that does not mean they cannot show ambition and strive to achieve more.
“You Have to Be Successful”
Insisting on success puts a lot of pressure on children and can make them feel they need to be better if they achieve their goals.
“You Can’t Do That Because You’re a Girl/Boy”
Reinforcing stereotypes limits children’s opportunities and teaches them that they can’t do certain things because of gender. Adults should encourage their children to wear what they want, play with whatever toys they want, and be who they want to be.
“You’re Not Like Other Kids”
Singling out children can make them feel isolated and different. It’s important to teach children that everyone is unique, which makes us special.
“You’re Too Young to Understand”
Saying kids don’t understand things dismisses children’s feelings and opinions. It’s important to take children seriously and listen to what they say.
“You’re Not Allowed to Be Angry”
Anger is a normal emotion, and teaching children how to express it healthily is essential. It is important to let children know they can get angry and the work that needs to be done it to show children how they can channel their anger.
“You Have to Be Nice to Everyone”
This can teach children to be doormats and not stand up for themselves. It’s important to teach children how to be assertive and set boundaries.
“You Can’t Do Anything Right ”
This is a very negative message to send to children. It can make them feel like they’re never good enough.
“You’re Lazy.”
This can make children feel like they’re not capable of achieving anything. Praising children for their efforts is essential, even if they fail.
“You’re Not Smart Enough”
This can make children feel like they’re not good enough. It’s important to encourage children to learn and challenge themselves.
“You’re Fat”
This can lead to body image issues and eating disorders. It’s important to teach children about healthy eating and exercise in a positive way.
“You’re Not Like Me”
This can make children feel like they don’t belong. It’s important to teach children about diversity and acceptance.
“You’re Not Loved”
This is the most damaging message we can send to children. It can lead to low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression. It’s important to let children know that they are loved unconditionally.
It’s essential to be mindful of the messages we send to our children. The things we say and do can significantly impact their self-esteem, emotional development, and relationships. Avoiding these harmful messages can help our children grow up healthy, confident, and happy.
21 Things That Shout You’re “Lower Class” According To Men
Class wars creep up in all aspects of life, including dating. We take a look at the things that men believe are telltale signs that you are lower class.
21 Things That Shout You’re “Lower Class” According To Men
Boomer Zoomers vs. Millennial Meh: 10 Cars the Older Gen Loves but Millennials Just Can’t Stand
The change in the automotive industry has been incredible over the year. Baby boomers born between 1946 and 1964 can’t get enough of the cars listed below, as muscle cars emerged in the 1960s, and new technologies appeared in the 1970s and 1980s. You can imagine why boomers genuinely appreciate these vehicles.
Boomer Zoomers vs. Millennial Meh: 10 Cars the Older Gen Loves but Millennials Just Can’t Stand
Across the Pond Disdain: 18 Horrendous American Habits Foreigners Just Can’t Stomach
There is a lot to love about America, from the bright lights of New York to the incredible breakfasts, but foreigners also dislike many things. We look at everything from poor public transport to an intimidating tip culture, sharing 18 things that America could be better at.
Across the Pond Disdain: 18 Horrendous American Habits Foreigners Just Can’t Stomach
Out with the Old: 18 Gen X Fads That Millennials and Gen Z Just Can’t Vibe With
While some old habits die hard, there are some things that Gen X need to eliminate as they are no longer relevant.
Out with the Old: 18 Gen X Fads That Millennials and Gen Z Just Can’t Vibe With
18 Unpleasant States You Might Want to Skip on Your Next Trip
When thinking of America, we don’t expect there to be boring or unpleasant places to visit. We see all the different states on the TV, and they show the best parts. However, there are some states you won’t want to visit, and you should brace yourselves if you ever happen to stumble into them.
18 Unpleasant States You Might Want to Skip on Your Next Trip
