Childhood is a phase that requires plenty of care, encouragement, and loving words, primarily from parents. Sometimes an absentminded statement that leaves your lips could scar your little one for a lifetime. Buying them toys, taking them out for movies, and playing with them are not enough, you need to find time to talk to them too. Studies show that children who grow up with vocal parents tend to be more confident and successful in life. Here are 9 things your children should definitely hear from you more often.
1. Thank You
Yes, thank them for the little things they do for you. Make sure they are appreciated every time they make you a greeting card, share their chocolates with you, fetch you tissues when you have a cold, put their dirty dishes in the sink, or do anything nice for you without being asked. Though many parents teach their children to mind their ‘P’s and ‘Q’s, they often forget to practice the same with their kids. Children learn the most from their parents; so make sure you set a good example.
2. You Can Do It
Childhood is one of the phases in life when kids look up to their parents the most. A child should get the most amount of confidence from his family. Children who are constantly encouraged by their parents turn out to be more confident individuals than the ones who are not. Show your child that you believe in his/her talents. Encourage them to never give up. Prove it to them that you will always root for them no matter how tough the situation is.
3. I Trust You
Trust is not something that should prevail between spouses or friends alone; it plays a vital role in your relationship with your kids too. Make sure your child knows that you trust him/her deeply. The fact that their parents have the utmost trust in them fills children with happiness and confidence—it will help them be more frank with you and will also make them think twice before taking impulsive or irrational decisions.
4. How Was Your Day?
No matter how busy you are with work or household chores or life in general, find some time every day to discuss how your child’s day was. Make it a habit to talk about everyday happenings in their life, the new things they learned at school, their friends, favorite teachers, the classes they love, every little detail counts. It may seem mundane in the beginning, but things will become a lot more interesting once your child starts opening up to you.
5. I’m Proud Of You
Let your children know that they don’t have to be on top of the class or win a trophy for you to be proud of them. In this extremely competitive world, it is important for kids to realize that winning is not everything, owning up to their mistakes, telling the truth, helping a friend out, keeping their rooms tidy, are all actions that should be truly appreciated.
6. Can You Help Me?
Do not hesitate to show them your fears and weaknesses. Reach out for your little one’s help when you need it. It will make them feel wanted and help them understand that you believe in them. Who knows, they might even surprise you with their unique ideas and solutions. The fact that their parents require their assistance will also help the kids empathize with them more and also come to the realization that they too have a vulnerable side.
7. I’m On Your Side
This is a statement your kids need to hear from you as often as possible. Your children should know that you are there to support them no matter what. Let your children realize you will always be there for them to lean on even when they have done something wrong. Always make it a point to give them the benefit of the doubt, even when all the odds point against them—that way they will know that they can always come to you no matter how bad the situation is.
8. Things Are Going To Be Okay
It is important for kids to understand that things don’t always turn out the way we want them to. It’s up to the parents to make their little ones strong enough to deal with failures and move on with their life. Talk to them about all the pitfalls you have had in life and make them realize how it is totally okay to come across failures—what is most important is how they deal with them and move forward in life.
9. I Love You
Make sure your children are aware that they are loved fiercely and deeply. Tell them often how you would do anything in the world to keep them happy. Don’t ever hesitate to express your love for your little ones through your words and actions. Spend as much as time with them possible, give them hugs and kisses, read to them, play with them, encourage them to follow their heart, and reassure them that they can be anything and anyone they want to be in life.
