Received this email the other day from LifeTouch--not sure how I wound up on their list--talks about how kids should have their photos done in school because it enhances their self-esteem. I laughed when I read this. Talk about a weak argument for photos.
Yes, I make money shooting photos but, enhances self-esteem!!?? Really!!?? How about the many kids who feel like crap because they don't like the way they look? I guess them having to pose for photos they don't want also help them!!!??
I guess it shouldn't surprise me (this coming from them) but it has to be one of the craziest sales pitches I've ever seen.
Here's the email:
"Photographs Can Reinforce Self-Esteem
Lifetouch recently explored the challenge of fostering healthy self-esteem in children, with Dr. David Walsh, well-known psychologist, educator, and founder and director of Mind Positive Parenting in Minneapolis.
The foundation for healthy self-esteem is laid in the first few months of life. Dr. Walsh says, "We are wired to connect. It's critical to our survival, and that's why the ability to connect is so important." When children believe they are safe, that their needs will be consistently met, they are free to develop a connection with those in their family and world. That earliest sense of belonging establishes a powerful foundation for future connections.
Parents strengthen their children's sense of belonging by encouraging friendships based on common interests—perhaps sports, music, or science—which create strong bonds that serve them well into adulthood. The sense of belonging also plays a central role in fostering healthy brain development, liberating children to do their best.
According to Walsh, photographs are powerful in reinforcing a sense of belonging for children, thereby promoting children's healthy self-esteem. It's a tool that Lifetouch is proud to embrace.
The school photograph tradition confirms that a child belongs to a class, a school, community, and a family. "
