News Update: Embracing the Average Experience in Parenting

self insemination kit

In a recent conversation, my child, Alex, revealed that he had reached the finals of the school’s Geography Bee. He expressed his anxiety and reluctance, stating, “I don’t think I’ll win, so I’d rather not participate.”

I can relate to those feelings; even as an adult, I sometimes struggle with the same insecurities. The challenge is to instill confidence in him, encouraging him to give his best effort regardless of the result. It’s essential to ensure that our children don’t feel overwhelmed to the point that it detracts from enjoying activities.

I reassured Alex that he should focus on me during the competition and do his best. I made it clear that no matter the outcome, I would be proud of him. He took my advice to heart, and while he seemed to wrestle with his desire to excel, he persevered through the event. Although he didn’t win, I hope he found some enjoyment in the experience. It’s crucial for him to understand that being an average kid doesn’t diminish his abilities or potential for success. I will never convey disappointment simply because he isn’t the best at something.

All three of my children are quite average. They occasionally make the honor roll, but it requires significant effort. Academic excellence may be on the horizon for them, but there are no guarantees. They participate in sports and various clubs, sometimes performing well, but other times not so much. They aren’t standout athletes or top scholars, and I am perfectly fine with that. Importantly, they are comfortable with their average status as well.

Of course, there are moments when I wish for them to excel, believing that success will boost their self-esteem. As their mother, it’s natural to desire the best for them. There are also times when I sense they could put in more effort, leading to my own frustrations. This often mirrors my experiences growing up; I wasn’t particularly engaged in school or sports, never finding a strong passion for any activity.

A few years back, I witnessed a fellow parent coaching his son’s basketball team. This boy was exceptionally talented, yet after the game, I overheard his father chastising him for mistakes. It made me wonder if the boy loved basketball or simply played out of fear of disappointing his father. That level of pressure is simply too much for any child to bear.

Children should not be belittled for being average; they deserve acceptance. We can motivate them to do their best, but we must avoid trying to shape them into something they’re not through excessive pressure. Remember, parenthood isn’t about living through your children; they are their own individuals, not extensions of ourselves.

I never want my children to feel that I would be disappointed if they miss a basket or fail to answer a question correctly during a competition. I take pride in the fact that Alex had the courage to stand in front of his peers and give it his all.

So yes, I embrace being the parent of three wonderfully average children. My love for them is unconditional, regardless of their report cards or sports achievements. What truly matters to me is their happiness, kindness, and effort. They are aware of my feelings because I express them regularly. It’s vital to recognize that average kids can be remarkable individuals too.

For more insights into parenting and home insemination, you can read more on this blog post. Additionally, if you’re exploring the journey of starting a family, check out Make a Mom for valuable resources. For excellent information on pregnancy and related topics, visit Womens Health.

Summary

This article discusses the importance of accepting average performance in children and encourages parents to foster a supportive environment. It reflects on personal experiences and emphasizes that self-worth should not hinge on external achievements.