By Jai Institute for Parenting
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April 5, 2025
When was the last time you lit up just because your child walked into the room? No test scores. No gold stars. No “good behavior.” Just the simple joy of them… Exactly as they are. In a world that constantly celebrates productivity and performance, it’s easy (and completely human) to slip into the habit of praising our kids for what they do rather than who they are. Encouragement can be a beautiful thing—but over time, it can unintentionally send a quiet message: You’re most lovable when you succeed. The truth is, our children are infinitely more than their achievements. They are worthy of love, joy, and deep connection simply because they exist. And when we, as parents, anchor ourselves in that truth, we offer our children one of the greatest gifts they’ll ever receive: the deep knowing that they don’t have to earn our love.