The sign for proud: take an “A” hand (closed fist with your thumb along the side of your bent index finger), and slide the tip of your thumb from your belly button up to your chest. Show a look of pride on your face. 🙂
As children grow, they struggle with their yearning for independence while still needing parental support. They want hugs and kisses, just not always in front of their friends. They long for closeness, but it may be only on their terms.
When my older son was in his first play – his Kindergarten class acted out a story for the parents – I knew he felt proud of himself but would still want to hear it from us. However, he wasn’t a kid who loved getting an outpouring of praise. So after he took his bow, he looked at me and I signed “I’m PROUD of you.” His smile in reply said it all – that was exactly what he needed.
Children of all ages need to know that their parents feel proud of them for their daily accomplishments and for special successes. Without any embarrassment or attention drawn from friends or other on-lookers, using the sign for PROUD when you have your child’s eye contact can have a profound effect. Try it!!