Jeff Kinney, author of the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series, was named the Children's Choice Author of the Year. This book series discusses the challenges and successes of a "wimpy kid" who is battling his way through the childhood mishaps of middle school.
The idea of a "wimpy kid" who prevails as a hero is an interesting concept. Often, our culture views it as socially appropriate for girls to be "sensitive" while boys are often viewed as "wimpy." The fact that the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series has become a best-seller might tell us a lot about what kids are thinking and feeling. Apparently, they could relate to the wimpy kid.
As a parent, how do you react when your child is "wimpy", or shall we say, sensitive? Do you say, "Toughen up," or "You shouldn't get so upset about that?" If so, you might not be helping.
Accepting that a child is sensitive can be helpful and can really do a lot for your child's self-confidence. This doesn't mean you need to cave in when your child has a temper tantrum of when your child whines. However, accepting that your child might cry more easily or might be more prone to frustration can go a long way.
Some children are just born more sensitive than others and this is part of their temperament. It's not a character flaw or something that needs to be changed. Instead, it's just part of their personality. Embrace it and look at it as a strength. We're lucky to have all sorts of different types of personalities in the world and there's nothing wrong with a sensitive personality.
Learn more about parenting a sensitive child.