Explore the powerful concept of teaching children their inherent value, beyond material possessions and accomplishments. Inspired by ancient wisdom from Plutarch and Plato, it emphasizes that each child is unique due to their individual DNA and life experiences. The message resonates with modern sentiments, reminiscent of Mr. Rogers' heartfelt affirmations. Ultimately, it encourages parents to instill self-love and appreciation in their children, reminding them that they are valuable simply by being who they are.
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Inherent Worth
Teach children their value lies within.
Their inherent worth surpasses external achievements or possessions.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Plutarch and Plato
Plutarch highlighted Plato's parenting strategy about inherent worth.
Children possess inner gold, more valuable than material possessions.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Mr. Rogers' Wisdom
Mr. Rogers affirmed children's inherent value.
He reminded them daily they're special just as they are.
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The ancient writer—and father—Plutarch tells us of a parenting strategy he discovered in the works of Plato. “Young people must be taught from childhood,” he said, “that it is not right to wear gold on their bodies or to possess it, since they have their own personal gold intermixed into their soul, hinting (I think) at the virtue that is part of human nature and received at birth.”
It’s a beautiful idea: They don’t need to wear that most precious and sought after ornament...because they are made of something much more precious. Even more beautiful is the timelessness of this observation. Plato said it over 2000 years ago...and Mr. Rogers ended every one of his programs with something very similar. "You've made this day a special day by just being you,” he would say. “There's no person in the whole world like you, and I like you just the way you are."
We must, as parents, teach our children where their value really lies. It’s not in accomplishments. It’s not in what they earn or how they look. It’s not to be found in anything external at all. It’s inherent. It exists because they exist. Because there is no one on the planet with their same combination of DNA and experiences and circumstances. That’s what makes them special—what makes them rarer than any of the rarest jewels and more precious than the most precious metals.
That’s why we love them. And why they should love and value themselves.
The Daily Dad