I went to my toddler’s St. Paddy’s Day class party and sat with him next to other parents with their toddlers. The mom next to me started telling her little girl all the things I say to my littles, so at first, nothing unusual. But when she kept repeating over and over to her child how beautiful she was, how much she loved her, how smart she is, etc, it started to feel a bit obsessive… if that makes sense. I absolutely believe in positive affirmations for our kids, and I take every opportunity to assure my child of my love and acceptance no matter what. I want to be the positive voice they have in their head when they’re older, so I am sure I can be known to overdue kisses and “I love yous.” I can definitely describe myself as obsessed with my kids too, so I get all those strong feelings and them bubbling to the surface.
But I also want my kid to be able to explore life not attached to my lap awaiting my assurance and love too.
Is there a such a thing as TOO much praise about appearance and intelligence and attachment? In public? If not, then my discomfort must have stemmed from something else.
It’s much better to see a mama super attached than one that couldn’t care less. But it still gave me some heebie jeebies. 🤪