Giving your child a sense of Self-Worth by Mrs. Dorothy Barron
Parents, by the time your child is at third grade level (for
many during first grade), he or she is acutely aware of his/her worth within
society. Schools can be viewed as a community, system and mini-society. Each
consists of a chief ruler(s), subordinates, law, a hierarchy and a population.
Within this population or mini-society your child’s worth is determined through
words, actions and the attitudes of others. Not only does the teacher and
classroom give your child a
sense of his/her self-worth, so does the entire school (mini-society).
Our schools give children a lot more than an education;
therefore, as a Parent, it is up to you to give your child a sense of self-worth;
a sense of belonging; a sense of who he/she is, a sense of values as determined
by those things which you demonstrate as important through your actions.
Parents, you want to build your child’s self-worth by
ensuring your child feel loved, special, needed, important and appreciated.
Such can be accomplished in small ways and cost little to nothing, yet, garner
huge benefits. We have listed 5 Ways for your consideration, here:
1.
Make and take time to tuck
your child in bed or tuck the covers around the bed (for the child who
considers him/herself too old to be tucked in); say, “I love you.”
2.
Stop and really listen to
your child. As Parents we can sometimes be guilty of listening to our child
with one ear and tuning the child out with the other especially when there are
a million things that need our attention; inattentiveness may signal to your
child that he/she is not important and if not important enough to garner your
attention, perhaps no one else’s.
3.
Talk to your child and do
not discount his/her feelings. We often ensure that our child’s material needs
are met, do not overlook your child’s emotional needs.
4.
Allow your child to assist
with chores or jobs that are considered “adult chores/jobs” (with adult
supervision to begin with and as applicable). Such may be writing checks for
monthly bills (provided you, the adult sign the checks) and balancing the
checkbook. Stress your need for his/her assistance and the importance of the
chore/job. Such also allows the child to demonstrate his/her skills and talents.
As applicable, remain present and attentive!
5.
Most people like and appreciate
surprises and/or gifts; they signify to the receiver that he/she is important
or special. Fix a special snack for your
child/ren and serve the snack to them in individual serving containers – as
your child puts in hours completing homework , relaxing and watching his/her
favorite television program or engaged in his/her favorite computer activity.
Years from now, it will be the little things the child
remembers and of which he/she reminisces!
Mrs.
Dorothy Barron, Founder
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