Why Chinese Mothers are Superior

This article brings up some good points regarding self-esteem and parenting. (who is in debt to who?) I recommend reading it in its entirety. Here is an excerpt, emphasis mine:

"What Chinese parents understand is that nothing is fun until you're good at it. To get good at anything you have to work, and children on their own never want to work, which is why it is crucial to override their preferences. This often requires fortitude on the part of the parents because the child will resist; things are always hardest at the beginning, which is where Western parents tend to give up. But if done properly, the Chinese strategy produces a virtuous circle. Tenacious practice, practice, practice is crucial for excellence; rote repetition is underrated in America. Once a child starts to excel at something—whether it's math, piano, pitching or ballet—he or she gets praise, admiration and satisfaction. This builds confidence and makes the once not-fun activity fun. This in turn makes it easier for the parent to get the child to work even more."

The article suggests that kids need an extra push at the beginning. Once they gain a certain level of proficiency they will enjoy the activity and presumably be self-motivated. I'm not sure I agree; in my experience, coercion does not lead to self-motivation. Despite a lack of skills in piano, ballet, or pitching, I am more than happy with my self-directed exploration and the assistance--not coercion--I was given in my childhood.

That said, my impending economics homework would be easier if my mother was Chinese. (Only half-kidding. Love you, mom!)