To create an environment for Osami to mimic parents reading when he grows up, I've been trying to cultivate a reading habit lately. It's not easy to sit and read for long hours, so I've turned to Millie's Library subscription for audiobooks. In just ten days, I finished three books (mostly on self-development 😅). I often watch YouTube videos related to parenting or book introductions about parenting. I've started a category called "Things I Want to Tell Osami" to note down impactful phrases.
"What did you fail at this week?"
It's a phrase I never heard as a child. That might be why I want to tell Osami even more. When I first heard this, I was deeply moved. I rarely heard words like "it's okay to fall" or similar comforting phrases when I was young. Rather, I mainly came across them when preparing for employment during my teenage years.
"Failure"
For many, this word carries negative connotations. It's not a familiar word, and it's not easy to get used to. That's why I think it's better to familiarize ourselves with this word from a young age. It's okay to experience little failures – "bite-sized failures."
- Getting messy with paint while coloring
- Spilling food while using chopsticks
- Falling off a bicycle
- Breaking a window while playing ball
Children will repeat the same mistakes and experience various failures until they become accustomed (Osami will be the same!). Praising them for their efforts during these times is essential!
"You tried and put in the effort~ Well done~!!"
Can I say these things easily? I've been asking myself repeatedly, but I'm still unsure. However, if Osami can be praised for his bite-sized failures and later not fear failure, wouldn't that be a great driving force in his life? To be a good father to Osami, I need to let go of my stoic demeanor, which resembles a 'tsundere' character. It won't be easy, but I'll try..!!
👉 The Easiest Parenting in the World - Parenting Practice
Q. What mistake or failure did your child make last week?
Q. How did you react to it?
Q. What did the child learn from the mistake or failure?
Q. What is the child practicing this week?
Q. Will I encourage my child to embrace failure or avoid it?
Below is a YouTube video by 'Book Foodie' introducing the book that inspired the above thoughts.
Whether through books or videos, I hope to remember the emotions and thoughts I've shared in this post and be a father who can communicate them effectively to Osami.
Recorded on March 20, 2023.