I’m Not Raising Nice Girls

My daughter doesn’t want to go to after-school childcare. There’s a girl there that keeps telling her she can’t play with other kids, who makes her feel badly for having other friends, and who threatens to take away “privileges” like birthday invitations if she doesn’t follow orders. When my daughter told the childcare workers that she didn’t want to be friends with this girl, she was scolded and told, “We’re ALL friends, here.” But, they’re wrong. We’re not all friends, and we don’t have to be.

I have a feeling that what those childcare workers meant was that meanness won’t be tolerated. And, I agree. But speaking up for yourself is not the same as being intentionally mean. Being “nice” and being “kind” are two different things.


Kimberly Mathis
Kimberly Mathis
Kimberly Mathis provides counseling and coaching services in Chattanooga, TN. She helps moms who have recently had a baby to transition into their new role as mother, teaches parents to have a better relationship with their children, and supports anyone who wants to become more self-aware, authentic, and intentional. In addition to seeing clients in private practice, she runs groups for women and new moms, blogs, gardens, and keeps doing her best to raise healthy, happy daughters. You can read more about what she offers, and catch up on her blog at www.kimberlymathis.com

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