Rosalind Wiseman is an internationally recognized author and educator on children, teens, parenting, education and social justice. Her work aims to help parents, educators and young people successfully navigate the social challenges of young adulthood.
Rosalind Wiseman
creating cultures of dignity
A Little Encouragement Goes a Long Way
I recently stepped way out of the confinements of my comfort zone and began taking class once a week at “P.O.W.E.R.,” an all female fitness studio owned and operated by one of my many shero’s, Janine McGann. I have had multiple compiling injuries this year, and haven’t done much of anything this summer. I thought I was going to collapse 15 minutes into the class. The competitive and Good Girl side of me was shining bright. I had on my game face and wouldn’t dare let anyone know I was on the verge of quitting. As I was about to stop, Janine came over and said “Beautiful Julia, great form!” I recharged and managed to make it to the last exercise. To finish, we did ridiculously difficult push up combinations and Janine literally got down to my level and cheered me through the end. I didn’t collapse, I didn’t reinjure myself, and I didn’t quit – although I had convinced myself I would do all three. Instead I left motivated, empowered, and looking forward to my next class.
My gym experience made me think about the kids I work with and the power of encouragement. Most of the time, a few positive words are all children need to get through the rough times. And most children are far more resilient than we give them credit for. Within the next few weeks, most kids will be back at school. Whether you are an educator, parent, coach, or family friend – make it a goal to point out the positive.
I have said it before; the beauty of growing up is that you are often afforded the opportunity to learn from mistakes, as the mistakes teach the most valuable lessons. Let them learn, grow, flourish, and thrive.
Here is a handout I enjoy that has a ton of examples of ways to praise children, both young and old. I encourage you to verbalize these messages, send a special random text to a your teen, or write something positive on the napkin in their lunch bag, as a little encouragement goes a long way.
Wishing everyone a successful 2010 -2011-school year!
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2 Responses to “A Little Encouragement Goes a Long Way”
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September 7th, 2010 at 4:56 pm
I agree with Janine’s comment! Wish there was a “like” button on this website.
August 25th, 2010 at 4:58 pm
Julia,
Great blog! I think as parents, too often we are so focused on our job of raising well balanced kids, that we tend to concentrate on everything they need to do and don’t realize what they’ve already done! It’s important to step back and really look at ALL of their accomplishments. And – to praise them! Most teens are really good kids. I have found that spontaneous praise can go a long long way with my boys! Thanks for the reminder.