On The Internet! Take the Self Improvement Tour
Talking With Your Kids
A Deeper Look at Positive Parenting.
Sometimes, especially if our child/teen is doing well, we parents tend to forget about giving her that pat on the back. Or, we assume she doesn’t need it. Not so. Everyone enjoys being noticed or getting support. Your child/teen also wants to know that you see her effort and progress as well as her successes.
All relationships flourish when the people in them sincerely affirm each other. So, consider telling your child/teen that you notice how hard she works or that you like the goals she sets or that you’re aware that she manages her time well or anything else you see that’s positive. I don’t think you’ll regret it.
Below you’ll see some words and phrases that you might use to get you started. You might feel uncomfortable or even awkward at first. A lot of us parents aren’t used to talking this way. But, I hope you’ll try them anyway. After a while I’m pretty sure they’ll feel more natural or maybe you’ll just develop your own. And, there a great bonus to this, too: if you do the affirming over time she’ll come to understand and believe these things about herself. That’s a tremendous boost to self-esteem. Give it a try.
And, of course, we don’t want to forget to say, “I love you.” That’s always the frosting on the cake.
All the best until next time,
Joan Chamberlain
Joan Chamberlain is an author, therapist, and life coach with over 30 years of experience helping adults, couples, and teens. She has a Bachelor's degree in Business and Finance, a Bachelor's in education, and a Masters in individuals, couples, and family counseling. Her book, Smart Relationships, has helped many people achieve the self-awareness needed to see themselves honestly. Its wisdom has helped them work toward improving their relationships with themselves, their friends, and their families.
To learn more about the ideas and concepts presented in her articles, please peruse her website:
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