Have you ever tried to challenge a teenager's burgeoning sense of entitlement? Or that same sense of entitlement in a toddler, for that matter? In either case, it is a daunting proposition...
It is developmentally appropriate for toddlers to have a sense of omnipotence, as they begin their mini march towards individuation. While teens are engaged in the "second round" of individuation, it is not inevitable that they will embrace that entitled experience.
Just a few suggestions: Please refrain from telling children how "special" they are. They are special to us, but not to the rest of the world. Please avoid promoting rabid "hyper competition." Please encourage their focus on developing their personal best, promoting cooperation and respecting themselves and others, in the process. Learning how to maintain relationships while working through competition or conflict is a pivotal skill set to master. This mastery will continue to contribute heavily to their future success, long after "the game" is done.
This is a photo of one particle of dust from Jupiter, thanks to an amazing new telescope. It may or may not be relevant, but I think it is beautiful... and, thus... special to me...
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