Radio Commentary
Feeling safe helps children feel
confident that they can meet new people, try new tasks, and take on new
responsibilities.
As children grow, they also need
time to explore their own power and abilities. This means parents need to let
go of some control and help their children take “healthy risks.”
How do parents help their children
learn what it means to be more self-sufficient? Think about these questions:
How do your children work through
their fears or doubts? How often do you do things with your children rather than for
them?
What do your children do that makes you laugh or
feel proud? Do they know it?
To help empower your children, tell
them often that you appreciate what they do around the house, at school, and
for friends.
When your children tell you about
problems, confirm their feelings and help them think through solutions.
Encourage children to take new
roles at school or try new activities that will be enjoyable but not stressful.
Let children take full
responsibility for some chores. When you do your own chores, do them with good
cheer even if they aren’t fun. Your children will learn from your example.
