Parenting:
Words are so Important...(Espanol)

Some words can make a child feel on top of the world and able to do anything.

"You're wonderful....I'm proud of you....That was a good effort....
You look very nice today....You're awesome....I love you."

These words praise a child and let him know how good we feel about him. They are the building blocks of a happy, confident person who can take on challenges and work for success.

Some words can make a child feel worthless and powerless.

"Are you going to be stupid the rest of your life?...You're bad....
You're the worst mistake I ever made....You never try hard enough....
You're lazy...Everybody hates you...You always mess up...Shut up!"

Words like these can hurt a child in ways that last a lifetime.

Many children are taught the expression "Sticks and stones will break your bones but words will never hurt you." This saying is not true. It is an attempt to help a child hide hurt feelings. Some words hurt more than physical injuries because the hurt lasts longer.

Some parents believe that constant criticism encourages a child to try harder. Constant criticism only teaches a child that it is not possible to please the parent. The child can be left feeling hopeless and unloved.

We want to remember to use words of praise, and words of love every day to raise children who are strong and capable.

"You're so smart....You're a good person....I'm so happy to see you."

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