Do you ever praise your kids? Do you tell them you’re proud of them?
Some people say we shouldn’t praise our kids. Maybe that’s because our children might end up doing things only because they want to gain our approval. And is there a risk a child might think she is better than everyone else if we praise her too often? We don’t want our kids becoming proud and obnoxious, do we? So, many parents stay well away from praise.
But I don’t, because praise (the right kind) is good for everyone. It’s all wrapped up with joy!
When we praise our kids properly, we are forced to look carefully at them. We can’t praise without first appreciating our kids’ talents and accepting who they are. Praise gives us a sense of awe: these are our kids! It leads to gratitude.
Praise tells our kids that they’re okay just as they are. We’re not manipulating them with our words. We’re saying that they don’t have to change to please us. Our children can go out into the bigger world with the confidence to be who they are and do what they are meant to do without worrying that we’re disappointed with them and their choices.
How about parents? Has anyone said recently, “I’m so proud of you!”? If they have, how did you feel? Is praise good for us as well?
The other day, when I told my sister that I’d published the 2nd edition of my book, Radical Unschool Love, she said, “Sue, I’m so proud of you!” Oh my, those words warmed my heart. They brought me great joy. They will encourage me to keep working on my next unschooling book. I know I can do it. My sister believes in me. She’s proud of me!
So I praise my kids. I praise often. They praise me too. We encourage each other, and we all feel joy!
Right at this moment, my heart is overflowing with joy because the new edition of my second unschooling book is on Amazon, and people are proud of me for that achievement.
Radical Unschool Love : what’s it all about? I could say radical unschooling, but that’s not enough. I need to mention unconditional love. Yes, it’s a book about a radical way of living, one that’s built on unconditional love.
I’m so pleased with my newly published book. Actually, I’ve very excited about it. I want to share it with you, especially if you’re not sure about the words radical unschooling. It’s not what the critics believe it to be. It isn’t an irresponsible way to live. Radical unschoolers aren’t self absorbed, caring only about themselves, and life isn’t chaotic. Unfortunately, some people don’t understand that radical unschooling is a beautiful way to live. I never used to understand either. I used to say we’d never become radical unschoolers, but we did without ever meaning to. Strange things happen!
Now I’d love to pass on what I’ve learnt and transform the image of radical unschooling through my stories. I want people to experience the love and joy associated with this way of life. Hopefully, I can do that with my book Radical Unschool Love!
Of course, my book won’t make a difference unless the world finds out about it. I need to promote Radical Unschool Love. Unfortunately, I’m not very good at putting myself and my work forward into the spotlight, but maybe you will help me? Will you read my book? Would you write a review (a positive one!)? Will you share this post?
I’d appreciate you helping me in any way you can. In return, I hope my book brings you much joy.
So please…
Check out my book, Radical Unschool Love, on Amazon. While you’re there, you could take a look at Curious Unschoolers too!
Update: also, have a look at my latest book, The Unschool Challenge!
