Shaping Your Child"s Attributes
Have you ever heard the saying 'you are what you eat'? Well, that could also be applied when it comes to what children think of themselves. If they are thought of as lazy, it is likely that they will become lazy. But, if they are thought of as bright and well-liked, it is assumed that they will become bright and well-liked. It is thought that children pick up on what others think and then apply those perceptions to become what they believe others think they are. That is not so far-fetched either considering the influence their peers have on them, not to mention the latest fashion statements from celebrities and the like.
Whether this is true or not, it is important you expect the best from your child; just not from the standpoint of causing them to become a round peg in a square hole. No parent should attempt to live their lives vicariously through their children. We are to simply pay close attention to their personality and then help them shape those attributes into a positive personality.
It is reasonable to expect your children to be respectful of others and to also be comfortable with who they are. To ensure they obtain a positive self image, you need to congratulate them when they follow through with a task to completion or perform a good deed. This needs to be done within an established framework, not something phony or made up. It is vital that you define boundaries for your children and, should they cross over one of those boundaries, you need to discipline them firmly and fairly.
Consistency is also important to allow the children a daily routine in order to maintain a stable lifestyle. Make sure your child experiences generous amounts of physical activity, as well as time to play and spend time with their friends. This will provide them with the atmosphere conducive to a well-rounded life. Within this environment, make sure they make right choices by explaining right from wrong. If they manifest anger or frustration, help them through it by being there for them and letting them know how they should behave in situations like these.
Finally, it is important you remain a positive role model if you are to expect the best from your child. It is a fact that they will 'do what you say' up to a certain age and then 'do what you do' after that. Be sure you show forth a consistent, balanced lifestyle that will guarantee a positive reinforcement in their lives. Be sure to spend quality time with your child and continuously encourage a spirit of cooperation with those around them. This will greatly cement their sense of self worth and accomplishment. It is a good thing to have great expectations of your children as long as it is balanced with the understanding that you both are human and not perfect.
Whether this is true or not, it is important you expect the best from your child; just not from the standpoint of causing them to become a round peg in a square hole. No parent should attempt to live their lives vicariously through their children. We are to simply pay close attention to their personality and then help them shape those attributes into a positive personality.
It is reasonable to expect your children to be respectful of others and to also be comfortable with who they are. To ensure they obtain a positive self image, you need to congratulate them when they follow through with a task to completion or perform a good deed. This needs to be done within an established framework, not something phony or made up. It is vital that you define boundaries for your children and, should they cross over one of those boundaries, you need to discipline them firmly and fairly.
Consistency is also important to allow the children a daily routine in order to maintain a stable lifestyle. Make sure your child experiences generous amounts of physical activity, as well as time to play and spend time with their friends. This will provide them with the atmosphere conducive to a well-rounded life. Within this environment, make sure they make right choices by explaining right from wrong. If they manifest anger or frustration, help them through it by being there for them and letting them know how they should behave in situations like these.
Finally, it is important you remain a positive role model if you are to expect the best from your child. It is a fact that they will 'do what you say' up to a certain age and then 'do what you do' after that. Be sure you show forth a consistent, balanced lifestyle that will guarantee a positive reinforcement in their lives. Be sure to spend quality time with your child and continuously encourage a spirit of cooperation with those around them. This will greatly cement their sense of self worth and accomplishment. It is a good thing to have great expectations of your children as long as it is balanced with the understanding that you both are human and not perfect.