Mar 02 2010
On the Importance of Developing Positive Attitudes
To have a positive attitude means being able to focus on the good things in life and not on the bad things that sometimes occur. Developing a positive attitude helps people cope. It is not necessarily something your child is born with, but can always be developed. As a parent you can help your child in developing positive attitudes about life, helping him face life’s challenges with confidence.
Diligently encourage your child to concentrate on doing what is important. This should be accompanied by positive words of reassurance, i.e. “You can” and negative statements by a child, like “I can’t” should be corrected. The last statement can make the child feel inadequate and thus, using this phrase makes him feel badly about himself. Parents need to help the child realize that he may not always be able to do everything by himself, but with help most tasks can be accomplished.
Being positive is a decision. Every one of us has the option to choose how to react.
People and situations can make us feel bad but we choose whether or not to dwell on it and allow it to change our mood.
Find reasons to smile and laugh, and demonstrate that to your child: watch funny movies, read good meaningful stories and above all develop a lifestyle of appreciation. Research shows that by smiling and laughing; it will change your brain chemistry and make you feel better. A home full of laughter is a happy home.
In addition, by learning something new can always helps a child feel satisfaction. It increases confidence and provides something for him to focus on. Having a hobby that he is good at is important, so whatever your child’s hobby is, let him know that you recognize and value his passion.
Shimon
Trevor Bishop