Not intentionally, but we do end up hurting children by frequent comparisons,. Each child is unique and comes with their levels of comprehension, physical abilities, and skills.
Let us accept it. We faced such comparisons – e.g.,, our arithmetical or mathematical abilities were weak, but we were often compared with the brilliant, budding mathematicians in our class or neighborhood. Our abilities in other fields went unnoticed or were inadequately recognized.
With the pressures of professions, travel, and the need to be connected to office work, modern-day parents need to be even more aware and alert and avoid comparing children. The focus could be on encouraging the skills that children are strong at.
Understanding and realization is the first step if one feels there is room for self-correction. Counseling for Parents is an option one could consider. Differences of opinions between parents also get addressed in a user-friendly approach.
Sivaram
