What should I have said?

[foolishpony]

My almost 3 year old niece told my 26 month old today that her chalk drawing was "not very good at all". My daughter didn't say anything, but just looked at me and my heart just broke. I am very unconcerned with "good drawing" and have never said anything to her about that -- more like "you are working so hard" or "I see the strong lines you've made" -- that sort of thing. Anyway, I just said something to my niece along the lines of "we all try our best and that is always good enough". They are both so young! What could I say in the future? Knowing my niece, this type of thing will surely happen again.

This is the first time another child has said something so mean to my daughter. I'm surprised by my anger toward my niece! Help!

[elmh23]

Well, almost three year olds just say what is on their mind. It's not always intended to be mean (though sometimes it can be.)

I would have just looked at my daughter and said that I loved it. And left it that at.

[bronxmom]

Not 100 percent sure of this, but what about "what do you think of it sweetie?" - of course, that depends on how verbal your 26 month old is and how much she even understands.

[Kittymom]

Poor little one! I'd maybe hang that picture on the refrigerator.