Educating tolerance to frustration.
Tomás Melendo reflects on education and the importance of tolerance to frustration within the family context. He emphasizes that parents must take responsibility for shaping their children's character by promoting their autonomy and confronting challenges, rather than overprotecting them. He criticizes the current trend of shielding children from difficulties, which prevents them from developing essential virtues such as temperance and strength. He highlights that the ultimate goal of education is to raise individuals who are capable of love, as happiness depends on the ability to love well, rather than achieving success or material well-being.
Character, talents and weaknesses
Sergio del Rey, with 20 years of experience in education, addresses the importance of character in the development of children. He explains that character is formed from temperament, which is genetic, and the environment in the first years of life. Parents play a crucial role in building character, helping their children recognize and develop their talents and virtues. Furthermore, he emphasizes that it is essential to accept imperfections and teach children to learn from their mistakes, thus promoting an education based on freedom and self-knowledge. In short, character education is an ongoing process that requires understanding and support from parents.
The Value of Emotions
Casilda Pérez Moura, a psychologist and school counselor, addresses the importance of affection within the family, highlighting the difference between affection and sentimentality. She explains how emotions and feelings, although sometimes confusing, are essential to our lives and should be expressed and managed, especially in children. She emphasizes the importance of emotional communication at home, where parents and children learn to express their feelings and build trust-based relationships. She also stresses the importance of teaching children to balance their emotions and protect their privacy in a digitalized world.
Educating for Success or for Happiness?
Patricia Galligo, a psychologist and psychotherapist, reflects on the concept of “educating for success” versus “educating for happiness.” She argues that, in today's society, success is wrongly associated with material and professional achievements, but true success lies in accepting our imperfection and vulnerability. She criticizes the pressure on young people to meet unattainable standards, stressing the importance of cultivating authentic relationships and building a balanced life. She suggests that parents should educate their children to accept personal limits, supporting their growth and helping them deal with frustration. Ultimately, she highlights the importance of having a safe space and being aware of our imperfect humanity in order to achieve true happiness.
Imperfect families
Inés Poch, a health psychologist, reflects on imperfect families, emphasizing that perfection doesn't exist in either parents or children. Through self-understanding and dialogue, parents should create a family plan tailored to their individual values and needs. She advocates for treating each child uniquely, recognizing their differences, and encouraging autonomy. She highlights the importance of learning from mistakes, forgiving oneself, and not overprotecting children, but equipping them with the tools to face life. Finally, she suggests focusing on family happiness, accepting both successes and mistakes.
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