In the fast paced society we live in it is understandable how difficult it can be to take time out of your busy day to talk with your child, especially if you have very different schedules. However, you can boost these points of interaction that you already have with your child by engaging in open and honest conversations about his or her beliefs, identity, and feelings. Be a source of support! This will help bolster your child’s resilience. Below are a few ways in which you can support your little learner today!
Listen intently.
Make it a goal to really listen and hear what your child has to say. When you listen intently to her you are letting her know that what she has to say is important. Let her talk without stating your own opinions and thoughts.
Have an open conversation.
Have a discussion with your child in the car, while on a walk, while eating dinner, or even just walking around at the grocery store. Explore his own beliefs and values with him! These conversations will help him discover who he is and teach him how to be open to new ideas and other opinions. This will enable your child to appreciate others’ perspectives and beliefs.
Have their back.
Life is not easy. Listen and discuss your child’s disappointments and successes. Being a source of support and having the ability to see things from her perspective will unite you and is an important building block for creating a strong and trusting relationship.
Validate their feelings.
When you validate your child’s feelings it shows him that his feelings are important to you. This encourages him to feel more accepted and helps him re-adjust.
