Why Do Parents Apologize for Sharing Their Pride?
Why do parents feel the need to apologize for sharing their pride in their children?
“I’m sorry, but I just have to share what my little one did…”
“Feel free to unfollow if this is too much, but I have to brag about my kid!”
“Warning: Mom brag post ahead!”
What compels us as parents to preface our joyful news with an apology? If my child is excelling in their swimming class, is there really a need to issue a disclaimer before sharing that joy? Why do I feel the urge to apologize beforehand? I’m going to share it anyway, and you should too!
Honestly, I often observe this trend on social media. Almost daily, I come across a post where a parent is excitedly sharing a moment of triumph from their child, accompanied by a flurry of emojis and exclamation points. It’s often paired with an adorable picture of that little superstar, showcasing their latest accomplishment.
And you know what? I love it.
I genuinely enjoy seeing the wonderful things children are achieving. I encourage parents, grandparents, aunts, and uncles to keep filling my feed with these delightful updates, but let me be clear: there’s no need to apologize for it.
The Importance of Celebrating Achievements
Kids thrive on knowing their parents speak highly of them. When they hear about the praise, it boosts their self-esteem and encourages them to strive for even more. I have a child who thrives on recognition and loves it when I celebrate her achievements publicly. I have no qualms about bragging about her, and I don’t feel the need for a preamble.
So, why do many parents feel compelled to apologize? Perhaps some view their posts as a way to seek validation for their parenting skills or as a humble brag. But maybe, just maybe, they are simply proud of their kids and want to share that joy.
Yet, let’s be honest: when parents share milestones like shiny medals, early language skills, or college scholarships, does it sometimes make me feel anxious about my own children’s accomplishments? Yes, I’ll admit it. I occasionally feel the pressure when friends celebrate their kids’ college acceptances and scholarships. However, it’s not that I doubt my child’s potential; it’s more about the natural desire for them to stay young and innocent a little longer. College is expensive, after all, and denial is a comforting place to be.
Celebrating All Milestones
And what about those parents who rejoice over achievements that others might consider “small”? Moments like a child making eye contact or calmly getting buckled into a car seat are significant milestones for many families. Parents celebrate a range of achievements that may not always make it to social media.
This diversity in milestones got me thinking: why is it easier to celebrate smaller victories—like overcoming a fear—than to cheer for a child’s sports accomplishments? I think it largely comes down to the distinction between ability and improvement.
Perhaps we find it challenging to engage with posts that highlight innate abilities rather than growth. If parents framed their updates around progress—such as “He was new to football last year, and through hard work, he just scored his 19th touchdown”—would that change the way others perceive those posts?
But why should we tiptoe around others when celebrating our own children’s successes? Everyone has something they excel at, from trying a new vegetable to receiving a full scholarship. All achievements deserve recognition on a virtual “Star Chart.”
Share Your Pride
So, I urge you to share your pride in your children, whether it’s a milestone or an accomplishment. Let us celebrate every success, big or small because it’s a beautiful thing to express pride. And when your child hears about your bragging? Well, that could put a huge smile on their face!
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Summary
Parents should stop feeling the need to apologize for sharing their pride in their children’s achievements, whether big or small. Celebrating these milestones is essential for building children’s self-esteem and fostering a sense of accomplishment. Everyone has something to brag about, and it’s beautiful to express that pride without hesitation.