Overcoming Stigma

“When kids see their parents as heroes, the world becomes a safer place forever.”
When a child looks up at their parent and says, “That’s my hero,” it’s a moment that
stays with you forever. But that happens when that same child hears whispers of doubt,
teasing, or judgement from their peers about the job their parent does? It’s a complex
and often painful reality for many families, especially those where parents work in
misunderstood or stigmatized professions like law enforcement.
Why Pride in a Parent’s Job Matters
For a child, a parent’s job is more than just a paycheck… it’s a symbol of who they are
and for what they stand. But when others misunderstand or mock that job, it can make a
child’s confidence and sense of identity. In the book, Robert shares, “Sometimes the
kids at school make fun of me because my dad is a police officer.” It’s a simple yet
profound line that reveals how a child’s pride can be tested by external judgement.
Parents should definitely make their children understand the value of what they do, why
they do and the confidence to stand tall against negativity.
How Parents Can Help Kids Overcome Stigma
Overcoming stigma takes intentional effort from parents. Here’s a step-by-step guide to
help your child navigate this challenge with resilience and pride:
Teach the Value of Your Work
Children often feel pride when they understand the significance of their parent’s role. To
help them see this:
Explain Your Job
Share simple, relatable stories about what you do and why it matters. For example, if
you’re a police officer, talk about how you helped someone find their way home or
solved a problem for the community.
Focus on Positive Impact
Emphasize how your work helps others, such as keeping people safe, teaching
students, or caring for patients. This makes the abstract aspects of your job more
tangible to a child.
Make It Personal

Relate your work to something your child can identify with. For example,
“Remember the time we got help when we were lost? That’s what I do for other
families.”
Address Teasing Head-On
When children are teased, they may feel embarrassed or unsure of how to respond.
Here’s how you can help:
Prepare Responses
Instruct your child confident but kind responses to teasing. For example, “My dad
helps people stay safe,” or “My mom teaches kids how to succeed.” Practicing these
responses through role-playing can boost their confidence.
Explain the Root of Teasing
Help them understand that teasing often stems from a lack of knowledge or
jealousy. Gor instance, you can say, “Sometimes people tease because
they don’t understand how important our work is.”
Teach Empathy
Encourage your child to respond with kindness rather than defensiveness,
reminding them that a calm attitude often disarms negativity.
Foster Open Communication
Children need a safe place to express their feelings, especially if they’re
feeling hurt of confused. Here’s how to create that space:
Listen without judgement. Let your child share their thoughts and emotions
freely. Acknowledge their feelings by saying, “It’s okay to feel upset or
embarrassed. Let’s talk about it.”
Ask questions. Gently ask questions to understand their experiences, such
as,” What did your friend say?” or “How did that make you feel?” This
shows that you care and helps you address specific concerns.
Reassure them. Use affirming language to build their confidence. For
example, “I’m proud of what I do, and I know you’ll feel proud too when you
understand how important it is.”
Be a Role Model

Children learn from what they see. By modeling pride and resilience, you
can show them how to handle negativity with grace.
Show your pride
Talk about your work with positivity and confidence. For example, “I love
being a teacher because I get to help students grow.” When your child sees
your pride, they’re more likely to adopt the same attitude.
Demonstrate Resilience
Share how you deal with criticism or challenges at work. For instance,
“Sometimes people don’t understand what I do, but I focus on the good I
bring to others.”
Celebrate Your Work Together
Include your child in celebrating achievements or milestones, such as
completing a big project or receiving recognition. This helps them see your
job as something to be proud of.
Helping Kid Understand the Value of Work
One of the most effective ways to combat stigma is through
education. In the book, Robert’s father takes the time to explain
his work to his children and Robert’s classmates. He talks about
how he became a police officer, the training required, and the
ways he helps the community. “I have always wanted to help
other people and felt I could make a difference,” he tells the class,
planting a seed of understanding and respect.
Parents can follow this example by breaking down their own roles
in ways their children can grasp. Show them the impact your work
has on others. When children understand the value of their
parent’s job, pride comes naturally.
If This Blog Inspired You, You’ll Love the Book
If you’ve found the blog insightful, you’ll be captivated by My Hero
is a Police Officer (and he is my daddy) by James Mitchell. The
book tenderly captures the emotional journey of a child navigating

pride, stigma, and understanding as he learns to embrace and
celebrate his father’s role as a police officer. It’s a heartfelt and
relatable story that resonates deeply with families from all
occupations.
Get your copy today and explore the inspiring world of Robert and
his heroic father.
Final Words
Helping children stand tall in the face of stigma and feel proud of
their parent’s work is no small feat; it takes endless patience, a lot
of heart, and love that doesn’t waver, no matter what.
As Robert reminds us, pride isn’t about perfection or pleasing
everyone, it’s about finding the courage in who we are and for
what we stand. Every uniform, every badge, every lesson taught
or life saved carries a story worth cherishing. And when children
see the sacrifices, and the dedication, and the love behind their
parent’s work, they don’t just inherit pride… they inherit legacy or
strength and purpose that shapes the way they see the world.
Because in the end, the greatest gift a parent give their child is
the belief that what they do matters, and who they are is enough.