I spent the day yesterday at the 4-H Regional Dairy Bowl Contest and the kids truly amazed me. However, I realized that dairy bowl ( a jeopardy like contest with buzzers is not for every kid). Every parent should be helping their own children find and develop their own particular strengths.
Foremost, we must realize that every child is very different. Beginning with little children, parents need to watch their children while participating in creative play. Parents need to look for their own child's unique qualities. What sets the child apart from others?
As children grow and develop, we need to expose them to varied experiences. Then we need to note what activities keep their attention and interest. Younger children should be trying a wide range of activities. As they grow older, they can narrow these down to what really interests them.
We need to communicate with the child about their experiences. Parents need to listen without judgement. Too much praise or criticism can lead the child to not be totally open with us. Ask them to evaluate and reflect. A parent may respond, "I hear you saying that soccer no longer interests you." " Can you tell me why?" Never, compare your child to siblings.
When a child discovers his strengths and interests, he will likely develop a passion for particular activities. Next week I will discuss how to help your child be successful in his chosen endeavors.
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