The Importance of Celebration

FRANK SCHOFIELD superintendent, Logan City School District

Think of a time when you achieved something that required significant effort. Maybe it was learning a song on the piano as a child, developing the skills to make the varsity basketball team, or even mending a broken relationship. For most of us, the effort we put into these tasks felt worthwhile when we were able to celebrate our accomplishments, even if the accomplishment fell short of our original goal.

We all need recognition, and even celebration, of our accomplishments. Children are no different, and the end of the school year is an excellent time to have some celebrations!

Children work hard in school, and they are acutely aware of their own successes and failures. Consequently, as a parent, it's essential to celebrate your child's success in school and in life. Whether it's getting an A on a test, winning a sports game, or just being a kind and thoughtful person, it's important to recognize and acknowledge your child's accomplishments. Celebrating your child's success can have a significant impact on their confidence, self-esteem, and overall well-being.

As we end the school year, celebrating your child's success in school can help them develop a positive attitude toward education. When children see that their hard work is being acknowledged and appreciated, they are more likely to continue putting in effort and striving for success. Not only should parents celebrate academic achievement, but they should also celebrate student effort, recognizing that when students exert themselves to achieve difficult goals, they may fall short, but they should still celebrate what they have learned through the process. This celebration of academic success, and a child’s effort, can help children set and achieve future goals, which is an essential skill that will serve them well throughout their lives.

Celebrating your child's successes in other areas of life, such as sports or extracurricular activities, can also help them develop a sense of pride and self-worth. When children feel good about themselves and their accomplishments, they are more likely to have a positive outlook on life and feel motivated to continue pursuing their passions. Celebrating these successes can also help children develop a sense of teamwork and sportsmanship, which are essential skills for success both in and out of the classroom.

It's important to note that celebrating your child's success doesn't have to be a grand event. Something as simple as a high five, a hug, or a special treat can go a long way in showing your child that you are proud of them.

Celebrating small successes can also help children develop a growth mindset, where they see their failures and setbacks as opportunities for growth and improvement. This is why acknowledging and supporting your child through their failures and setbacks is just as important as celebrating their successes. This helps children learn that failure is a natural part of life and that it's OK to make mistakes.

When children feel supported and encouraged, even in the face of failure, they are more likely to persevere and continue striving for success. For parents, one significant payoff of celebrating your child’s successes is that it can strengthen the bond between you and your child. When children feel supported and loved, they are more likely to have a positive relationship with their parents. Additionally, celebrating successes can help children feel like they are part of a team, where everyone is working toward a common goal.

Celebrating success is both an exciting and an essential part of parenting. By celebrating your child's successes and supporting them through their failures, you can help them develop a positive attitude toward life and a sense of self-worth that will serve them well throughout their lives. So as the school year ends and summer begins, go out and find something to celebrate!