Expectations

Low Expectations

I have had conversations with people who have children and some who work with children
we all discuss our expectations for children

I have also been places where the expectations for children is extremely low..
I have been in educational settings where the children are not expected to do basic things; sit quietly, be respectful, deal with the word NO!
I have been places where children are not allowed to use scissors, or attempt to write their names  because some professional told the teachers "they are not ready for that" when children of the same age in private schools are not only doing these things but excelling at it

I walked into a room where children were misbehaving and being disrespectful towards the 3 adults in the room and when I did what comes natural, raised my voice told them to pull it together they started to respond but the ADULTS in the room said "no that 's okay"
where in productive society will this, BE OKAY

every child is not going to be a rocket scientist, nor are they going to be the next Michael Jordan but they can be an average student, with average sports abilities and interests

people don't invest nearly as much energy in making them good caring people
teaching children how to say please and thank you, speaking to people when they come into a room
knowing the difference between a friend and someone who is friendly, how to conduct themselves in public places

as a mental health therapist I have often wondered why children are so stressed out between September and June
I use to think it was because of the stress from grades and peers but I now see that it's mainly due to parents and their EXPECTATIONS.

every child is special and yes you should attempt to challenge them, but make sure its not at the risk of making them bad people with smart brains, or horrible human beings with great athletic ability

give them a chance at being balanced