Man Up!

So, today Lena came home from school with some very good news. She took her Reading Placement test and as a sixth grader she scored a perfect score on the test.  This means, she is reading at a college level. I gave her a hug and told her how proud I was of her. She continued to repeat this info over and over again and each time I told her how proud I was of her. We called her dad, we called grandma and even told her Tio. Then she turned to me and asked, "So, do I get a Party?" I replied by explaining to her that when you grow up there is not always going to be someone there to throw her a party when she does good. I told her this is why it's important for her to learn how to be proud of herself and do things not for recognition but because it is important to her. Shortly after, I had to return back to work to give a presentation and as I was walking to the classroom I couldn't help but revisit my response to her. Was I being too rough on her?? I will admit I am rougher on my daughter than my son. Why? Because I know how hard it is for a woman to suceed in this world. I am not going to get all feminist on you..honestly I just see myself in my daughter and I worry that this strongwilled, intelligent, imaginative little girl will lose herself in this cruel world. So, was I too rough? Do I need to celebrate more her accomplishments??? So I went back to the basics..In my parenting classes, I always tell the parents, when in doubt ask yourself, what are you trying to teach your child with your actions?? Then I realized, I already taught her something, I taught her to strive to be the best and today she accomplished that, She was the BEST in her Reading. And you know what? That deserves a party!!! After work I stopped by the store and got her a snowman cupcake. After dinner the family shouted hip hip hooray and gave her a round of applause. So, does my little girl need to learn to be tougher and Man Up and not show her emotions? Maybe, but not when she's around me!! Now everybody go get yourself a snowman cupcake!

Hugs and Raspberries,

L