So when I started hearing and reading about all the fairs, contests, and competitions that are being cancelled or revamped because of the pandemic, my first reaction was to be sad. My first thoughts: It's not fair. The kids have worked so hard. They deserve to be recognized, honored, and rewarded.
I still believe that--the part that the kids deserved to be recognized, honored, and rewarded. But if we really stop and think about it, who says it always has to happen in the showring or any other type of contest venue? Can't the lessons and skills be learned and memories made without a ribbon or trophy? Shouldn't they be?
Trust me--I know these things are special. I have pictures galore, and until I gave them to the kids, I had boxes of ribbons and trophies to verify my kids' accomplishments. But I also want you to know that those things aren't what caused the skills and lessons they learned to take root and grow to help them become such amazing adults. Likewise, the memories are in their hearts and minds and can be recalled without looking inside a box.
What I'm saying here, is that you kids need to know that the skills, lessons, and knowledge they've acquired from their 4-H projects (or similar things) aren't any less important or valuable because the fair isn't happening or 'looks different' this year. And as parents, it's up to YOU to help them.
Don't feed their disappointment and discontent by joining them in the 'no fair' song and commiserating with them on what isn't happening. Help them see that it's not how much attention they get for doing something something well, but the actual doing that matters. Life is different now, so instead of making it worse and making it harder than it has to be, set an example for your kids on how to take things as they come, see the good, and make the best of it. Doing that--well, that's just good parenting.
Love,
Momma D
Copyright 2020 Darla Noble No part of this can be used or copied without permission from the author.
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