Why Parents Should Never Force Kids to Dance or Recite Poems for Guests

New Delhi: Usually, whenever a relative or guest comes to the house, many parents start asking the child to perform something. Some say, "Come on, son, recite a poem for uncle," while others say, "Show aunty a dance to 'Aaj Ki Raat'." But during this time, many children start feeling uncomfortable. Some become shy and silent, while others perform out of compulsion despite not wanting to.

What did the health expert say?

Parenting coach Dr. Khushboo questioned this habit of parents and said, "Your child is not the entertainment channel of your house." She said that parents should respect the child's feelings in front of relatives.

Child is not an entertainment channel

The parenting coach said that often, when guests arrive at home, parents tell their child, “Son, recite a poem for uncle and aunty,” “show that dance,” or “sing a song.” But they need to understand that your child is not the entertainment channel of your home.

Parents do this to boost their ego

According to Dr. Khushboo, when a guest or relative comes to the house, many parents present their child as a trophy to boost their status or ego. If the child becomes embarrassed or refuses to perform, they scold them in front of everyone or say, "Look how stupid you are." This isn't proper parenting, but could even amount to emotional abuse.

Performance anxiety can also be a cause

She further explains that according to NLP psychology, when a child is repeatedly forced to perform in front of others, they develop a habit of people-pleasing. This makes the child believe that their value lies only in entertaining others. This can also effect their future..

Children's feelings should be respected

Dr. Khushboo concludes that alpha parents respect their child's boundaries and protect their feelings, even in front of relatives or guests. So, the next time a relative insists on having their child demonstrate something, calmly and casually say, "He's not in the mood right now. He'll tell you when he's ready." This way, the child isn't under unnecessary pressure and feels safe.