There will come
a time when you and your child have different opinions. It’s inevitable.
Accept this
fact and understand that depending on a child’s age, personality traits, and
peer influences at times, he or she is certain to see things from a different
perspective at times.
Accept these
differences of opinion and use the opportunity to discuss the topic in
question.
Encourage
independent thinking and listening to others. Getting to know people better and
understanding their perspectives can be vital to future emotional and
psychological well-being.
It’s also very
healthy and affirming for children to hear you say these words when
appropriate: “You’re right — I hadn’t thought about it that way.”
When children
grasp the idea that we can always learn something new and see something from
another point of view, they are more likely to keep open minds as they engage
in a spirited defense of their own beliefs.
Help them flesh
out their arguments and approach issues from different sides. Show them that
everyone is entitled to an opinion but that not
all opinions are equally valid, especially if they are based on emotion or
misconceptions, rather than fact.
A thoughtful debate is often very educational
and stimulating. Helping your children become articulate, thoughtful, and
respectful will help them at all stages of their lives.
