Celebrate Them
Your child got straight A’s on her report card for the first time ever. Your son scored the winning goal that won the hockey tournament. Your child graduated top ten in their high school. Your child remembered to flush the toilet. Your husband wrote you a letter telling you why he loves you. Your spouse got a raise, a promotion, or completed a project at work.
These are just a few examples of achievements you would celebrate with your family. Make it a big deal. Let them know how proud you are of their accomplishments.
I know that some parents are worried about praising their child too much. They worry that they won’t be able to figure out how to celebrate without it becoming an expectation.
Pick one day each month to celebrate the wins and losses of each family member. Plan a celebration of that person. Giving each person their own day. Having their own day will make them feel special and give them more of a reason to make sure they have something to celebrate.
However, be aware that some people don’t like the pressure of having to shine. That’s okay too. If you have people in your family that doesn’t like the spotlight, it’s okay to celebrate the wins of the entire family instead of making it just about that person. A celebration should be fun.
Here are a few ideas of how to celebrate their achievements:
1. Give them a card with a positive and supportive message from you.
2. Have everyone in the family write down a reason that they love them and are proud of them.
3. Add a note to their lunch box, backpack, or something they will have with them for the day.
4. Make their favorite breakfast, lunch, supper, or dessert.
5. Surprise them with a bouquet of flowers, balloons, candy or whatever they like.
6. Give them a framed photo of their accomplishment so they can hang it as a reminder.
7. Order their favorite food for dinner.
8. Create a scrapbook so they can remember their accomplishments.
9. Decorate their bedroom with signs, balloons, and streamers.
10. Have a family movie night and allow them to pick the movie and the snacks.
What one action can you take right now to encourage your family to do what they love? How will you celebrate their accomplishments when their goals are reached?
