Quote:Villainizing? So why such strong opinions of participation trophies? I guess I don't get why it is such a big deal to you.

 

Why is it?

It's the value and meaning that is lost. It's not necessarily the trophy itself, it's what goes into it to earn something. If everyone gets the same thing, that meaning is lost. Teachable moments, or lessons are lessened, some diminished when we treat everyone as equals.

 

What if we gave all A's to the boys and girls who showed up to school. A's to the kids who barely have to open a book, who are naturally gifted with the skills to be successful and not even having to study. A's to everyone who did all the work possible, came in after school for extra help, worked hard to get what they do. A's to the kid who comes in and generally struggles to get average level work but works their tails off, we can call it an Atta Boy or Girl A. A's for the kids who are extremely smart but don't apply themselves, just lazy, they don't want to do anything. A's for the kid who just shows up, then wants to drool on his desk all day because he stayed up to late playing video games. Let's pat them all on the back and tell them they are good kids, they are going to be successful just because you showed up. Everyone deserves this A because you're all special and work hard.

---