Children are honestly very complex. They only begin understanding empathy around the age of five, and it’s something that needs to be taught. While it’s their environment and interactions that make them who they will become, it’s going to be the support that they get from their family that sticks with them the most. Now, when it comes to children, they don’t always understand when parents are being supportive or not.
Some may take your support as telling them what to do, while others may just want to reject the support (such as teenagers). But generally speaking, as an adult, you still need to nudge your support and love to them. So, from juggling a busy family life, here is what you need to know so you can show you’re being supportive.
Never Be Critical
Regardless of what you’re child faces, you don’t want to criticize them for it. You’re going to instantly push the belief it’s their fault. It’s honestly the fastest way to damage a relationship. Regardless of what hardship your little one is going through, you’re going to want to help them out. This can even include getting ADHD natural supplements for kids to them in case they need something like that. Overall just don’t be critical, it will never work out well, and it’s the exact opposite of support. If you’re looking for alternatives to Adderall, you can read an article and learn more about how it can help your child with ADHD.
Never Judge
It’s easier said than done but never judge your child- out loud or in your thoughts. It’s hard to be supportive and compassionate if you’re judgmental. Being critical is a sign of insecurity and can poison relationships. Try to become aware of your judgmental thoughts and challenge them. You also need to keep in mind that a child’s brain isn’t going to think the same way as yours. They are literally still developing, so their thought process is going to be different. In fact, it may even take time for a child to grasp the consequences of their actions.
Listen to Them
A child who feels listened to may find it easier to stop whining or throwing a tantrum. Tap into their emotions instead. Repeatedly reflecting back to your child how they feel can help strengthen the synapse pathways in their brain. This is also a great way to build a connection with them. This particularly works for a small child, but even for an older one, such as tween or teen too. Point out that you notice their emotions, and let them know you’re there to listen to them. But never actually push it unless they’re the ones that want it.
Encourage Them to Be Themselves
One thing that every parent should embrace would be allowing their child to be their own individual self. That’s the beauty of a child; they may be shaped and raised a certain way, but their own ideas and beliefs may be entirely different- and that’s completely okay! Honestly, this is one of the best ways that you can show your little one that you support them, you’re allowing them to make their own choices and enjoy the things that they find interesting.
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