There is the well known saying regarding child behaviour which is, “Children won’t do what you say. They will do what you do”. The following is a list drawn up by a Behaviour Analyst, of some ways in which parents can work on teaching children self care in order for the child to recognise how important it is to prioritise self-care in their own life too.
1) Looking After Their Health – In terms of this, at times children compete in the form of sibling rivalry as to who is the fittest, who is the strongest, who is the fastest, etc. By a parent demonstrating to their child that they look after their own health, it makes it more likely the child will have healthier habits also, & so will be able to hold their own when it comes to playing or doing activities with other children at home & in other environments.
2) Making Exercise A Priority – Exercise releases feel-good endorphins which gives a natural high, which can be an instant mood booster. This is a really healthy stress reliever with regards parents teaching children self care, so that the child can use it for their own benefit from when they are young, & also right throughout their life.
3) Setting Appropriate Boundaries With Others – Child Therapists underline the importance of parents highlighting to their child from an early age how to have boundaries with other people in order to protect their own mental health & energy, & to instill a strong sense of self-worth in their child.
4) Prioritising What Is Most Important In Life – It is important that parents ensure that they recognise what is most important in life, i.e., their family & loved ones. When a parent recognises this & values it, it makes it more likely that the parent will take the time to have quality one-to-one time with their children, which in turn will reduce the likelihood of the child presenting with as many attention seeking behaviours. In addition to this, when a child grows up seeing their parents value the important things, it instills the same values in them & sets them a great example.
5) Surrounding Themselves With Good People – Studies in the field of Behaviour Analysis show that people become most like the people they spend the most time around. This is why it is so important for parents to be mindful of who their child is engaging with, as it is likely going to have an influence on their child’s behaviour also.
6) Taking Time To Rest & Recharge – Behaviour Therapists point out that when a person is well rested, they are much more able to manage the challenges of life, & are better equipped at managing anger, & dealing in a more patient & calmer way with any obstacles they come across. For children, this reduces the likelihood of tantrums & other behaviour challenges which makes parenting a lot easier all round.
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