As a girl raised in the Chinese education system, I was often told: “You shouldn’t cry,” “Happiness invites sorrow,” and “Feelings don’t solve problems.” Over time, I learned to bury every joy, anger, and sadness deep inside.
My perspective shifted when I watched a stage play about Chinese parenting — (see video below). One line in particular ignited all the emotions I’d been taught to suppress. In the play, the father eventually awakens, but the harm to the child is already ingrained.
That moment is why I chose to design this project: to remind parents to listen first, guide gently, and protect their children’s emotions — before silence turns into lasting damage.