Raising Humble Kids
raising kids series: part 3 of 5
Raising four girls, I have to emphasize the importance of humility often, because their natural instinct is to be proud of themselves. Doing a homework assignment "Wow, I did perfect on that question. I am the smartest!". Twirling around like a ballerina in the living room "Look at me mom! Aren't I the best ballerina you've ever seen?". Looking in the mirror while doing their makeup "I am the best at makeup ever!". Or my favorite "Look mom, I did something really nice for sissy. I'm such a great sister."
Don't get me wrong, all of that is incredibly sweet. The confidence they have is great and we can’t take that away from them. However, what message are we sending to them by letting them feel like they are better than everyone else? If we were all given the same talents and abilities, how would our society function? If everyone was good at creating technology, who would be teaching our children in school? We can practice something all we want, or study often and become better in our talents, but we can only get so far. That’s because these are gifts that have been given to us.
If I’m being honest, I was not created to do anything related to science. I could study that forever and still be lost. So what do our talents have to do with humility? Everything. If we teach (ourselves) and our children that we aren’t good at everything, it can take away the power to make us feel worthy of abundant praise.
Let's get down to it. How are we as parents supposed to teach our children humility? Here's a way for all of us to get started. Don't forget I got this advice from some seasoned moms, so listen up.
Always Be Thankful
It is hard to be arrogant when you are constantly thankful for what you have been given, whether in abilities or material things.
Recognize Your Own Faults
Talk to your kids about areas in your life that you are not perfect in, things that you may struggle a bit in.
Serve Others
Show your kids by serving others despite the outcome. Some people won't say thank you. Show them that the true reason we serve is because God first served us.
Praise Others
Learn to praise others for the talents and abilities they were given. In the process we can recognize that others are talented as well.
Learn To Take a Compliment
There is such a thing as someone who reaches to be extra humble. Don't be that person. Say thank you!
