Do you recall the pressure you felt when striving for perfection during your academic years? Our awesome book writer, Juana, was recently sharing with me that even after completing a graduation project that earned her a 4.9/5 grade, she was devastated because she did not receive a perfect score. This was due to a lifetime of conditioning, where anything short of perfection was not enough.
Focusing on our successes and progress is crucial to fostering confidence and motivation. By celebrating these milestones, we can shift our thoughts from what we think we lack to what we have accomplished. From running Les Petites Pommes since 2009, I have witnessed my students struggle with similar anxieties over the years which is why our teachers are committed to always finding opportunities to acknowledge and celebrate our students’ achievements!
According to a study conducted by the American Psychological Association, parents who celebrate their children’s academic achievements increase their children’s academic motivation and ultimately their academic performance. In fact, the study found that parental celebration of academic achievements was a more significant predictor of children’s academic motivation and performance than parental involvement in homework or school events.
Embracing our successes allows us to approach failure with a more positive mindset. Rather than viewing it as a daunting obstacle, we can see it as an opportunity for growth and improvement. Celebrating our children’s achievements can strengthen our relationship with them while providing a safe space for them to seek help and guidance.
I wish you a happy week of celebrating! We are grateful to have you in our learning community!
We love when our students share their celebration photos with us! Here’s some including their proud test scores and receiving the French Immersion Award for being the top student in their high school! Also pictured above is when my student and I were celebrating her passing her French interview to be accepted in the House of Commons Page Program in Ottawa!