May is being recognised as Child Month under the theme 'Enabling Independent, Enthusiastic and Successful Learners'.
Today, we begin our series of suggestions for good child development. You can help your children become more confident by:
Backing them up by saying things like, "You did that really well." Showing that you love them no matter what. This will help them to love themselves. When you see a special talent in your children help them to make it stronger. Avoid making fun. Jokes or nicknames can be hurtful. See the good things about your children and tell them what you see. Be gentle with mistakes. We all make mistakes and can learn from them. Set limits so they know what they can and cannot do. They will feel secure that you will not let them go too far. Take their feelings and emotions seriously. Be a good role model by loving yourself, too. Teach them to help others. This will help them to feel that they can make a difference.
Adapted from 'A Curriculum for Parents of Adolescents'.
