A child is a gift to its parents and to society at large. Right from the start, a child starts acquiring awareness about its surroundings, and absorbing information. The way in which children perceive events and happenings are quite different from adults. Child psychology is the study of the mind of children and their thought patterns. A child laughs, cries or grows restless for a wide range of reasons. Renowned child psychologist Justin Urbas has some valuable tips related to children’s psychology. Paying heed to these can help parents understand their children and bring them up better. Let’s have a look.
Valuable Child Psychology Tips for Parents
1. Observe your children – This is one of the most important aspects of child psychology that parents need to pay attention to. Simply observing a child’s movements, expressions, emotions and activities can tell you a lot. Each child is unique in their own way and might start showing affinities regarding certain things from a very early age. Appreciating these little things is a part of nurturing children.
2. Give them some time – Many of us are genuinely quite busy handling our careers, social obligations and everyday responsibilities. But that is hardly an excuse for not spending enough time with one’s children. A child that has available parents witnesses faster mental and cognitive growth, and can grow up to be smarter. The affection of parents is also quite valuable to the emotional health of children.
3. Be present mentally – Have meaningful and interesting conversations with your child, and give them your undivided attention as much as possible. Children can sense the bond between themselves and a parent who is truly affectionate. In return, your child will feel more secure and be encouraged to open up to you.
4. Pay attention to the environment – A child is exposed to two different environments as he or she grows up. Firstly, there is the familiar boundaries of home. Then there are social places like school or the playground. Both these environments are directly impactful on the intelligence and cognitive development of a child.
5. Ask if they’re doing well – Children will open up if you create an environment of safety and warmth. Ask them how they are doing in school, in the playground, and with their social relations. Listen to their difficulties, and try to help them deal with problems. For instance, children who are victims of bullying become withdrawn, and do not actively participate in class or the playground. Work with teachers to understand how a child’s problems can be solved.
6. They think differently – As mentioned earlier, a child generally perceives its surroundings and relationships in a way that is vastly different than adults. Be patient and understanding with them, and you will be able to help them face their obstacles. The more time and attention, you can provide for your child, the better off he/she will be.
These are some of the key facts about psychology that parents can follow to understand their children better.
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