Happy Kids

A few kind words can mean everything to a child; a few misplaced criticisms can wound them - so, how do we nurture happy children? Here are a few tips.

Assure: at every opportunity tell your child about what they do well. If they sing nicely or walk well to nursery or show kindness to another, make a point of telling them.

Give them the stage: let them show you things whether it be a new song sung at school or a dance they learned at ballet.  Allow them to have a little attention now and then.

Encourage: if they are struggling with something, be kind and calm and encourage them to keep trying and to achieve.  Don't pester or push too hard, but give them confidence enough in themselves to try hard and achieve whether it be riding a scooter or throwing a ball.

Give them independence: if they want to help sweep the floor or get dress on their own, don't pester them, let them try it out for themselves, even if you know you are going to have to go round behind them and sort it out afterwards.  Having a belief that you can do something yourself is very important.

Mistakes: are not always intentional so try not to get angry if they do something wrong.  Give them the confidence to try again!

Praise them!: make them feel good about themselves by telling them how much you enjoy their singing, or love their scribbles.  Display work even though you might think it a little less than perfect.  Make sure you display it low down so they can see too!