Demoralizing Dad—The Piano Showdown
There are two schools of thought on the whole let your kids win thing. One states that you should never let them win. They should have to earn it just as in real life. It builds confidence, strength, character and a greater appreciation of the victory. The other school of thought is to toss in the towel, let your kids win every once in a while. It builds confidence, strength, character and a greater appreciation of the victory. I’m torn on the whole issue. While I’m all for winning and building up of a child’s confidence, I also believe that losing builds just as much confidence and strength of character. It takes a lot to come in second or third. I’m an also ran, always have been. As our local paper would recount our high school track and swim meets listing top finishers in each race, they also had the kindness to publish the names of all of the competitors in each race–the also rans. That was me. I never recall making it out of the also ran column. It’s easy to be a winner, but you know what? Not everyone gets to be that person. Every race or competition is filled with also rans.
Some of you may recall how last week I was forced to find new and creative ways to get Zoë to practice her piano lessons. She’s done much better and practices are enjoyable once again. An overwhelming number of those who commented (thanks Dan and Jen) asked about the actual sound bites that accompany my demoralizing. Sadly, I was unprepared that day. I did, however, put in minutes of practice this past week and challenged Zoë to another duel. A showdown.
