Why Constructive Criticism May Benefit Children More than Praise

BY : Deborah Song

Providing constructive criticism to kids is hard . Perhaps you can relate to the challenges I face as a parent . My oldest is a traditional firstborn : a rule-follower and perfectionist who takes negative feedback like a gut punch in the stomach . In fact , she is so hard on herself that I often find it excruciatingly painful to provide any feedback that isn ’ t positive . My second and youngest is a feisty , naturally confident strong-willed child who often cuts my feedback short by telling me , “ I already know this , mom .”