M Is for Motivation: How Can I Be More Encouraging Towards My Child?

You already work hard to keep your child happy, but are you doing enough? What can you change or do differently to encourage a child the right way?

We’re here to talk about it. Read on to learn all about how to give encouragement to a child.

Look for Good Behavior (And Call It Out)

Too many parents end up focusing on the “bad” things that their children do instead of the good ones. While it’s important to correct bad behavior, by only paying attention to that behavior, you’re giving it more power. The child may be motivated to avoid that behavior, but that doesn’t mean that they’ll feel the need to display good behavior instead.

Look for good behavior. Go out of your way to pay attention to the positive things that your child is doing, even if they’re small. Remember that things that seem small to you are much more significant to your child.

If your child shares a toy, cleans up after playing, or even clears their plate at dinner, make a show of it. Offer small rewards or even encouraging words. There are plenty of phrases to encourage a child without physical rewards.

Challenge Your Child

Challenges are enrichment opportunities for your child. Don’t let them shy away from difficult things!

Ask your child open-ended questions that require some level of critical thinking. You’ll be surprised at how creative your child can be when you’re not answering questions for them or asking something with a yes or no answer.

Find a puzzle to give to your child and have them work on it alone. Puzzles are fun, but they also work your child’s brain. The child will feel a sense of accomplishment when the puzzle is finished, which will motivate them.

If you notice that your child has a talent, encourage that talent by challenging them. Athletic children can play on obstacle course challenges. Children who show early math skills will benefit from at-home workbooks.

Have Them Try New Things

If you want a child that grows up strong and fearless, encourage them to try new things while they’re young. These things can range from activities to new foods.

When your child tries something new, they may be scared at first. With your support, however, they’ll feel empowered and ready to conquer this new thing.

You should expose your child to as many new things as possible. It makes them less likely to be afraid of new things in the future.

Let Them Be Bored

This is a tough one for parents who feel like their kids need to be entertained during every moment of their lives. Resist the temptation to place your child in front of a screen every time they’re alone. Let them be bored!

What does this do to encourage them?

By letting your child sit with their own thoughts, you’re giving them an opportunity to use their imagination and get creative. Children need to engage in imaginative play.

When you give your child space to entertain themself, you’re encouraging complex thoughts and independence. This doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t provide games and toys, but you shouldn’t rely on them all the time.

Let Them Solve Problems

Again, this is a challenge for many parents. When you see your child struggling with something that you know they’re capable of solving, let them solve it without your help. You can offer guidance, but don’t do it for them.

When you do everything for your child, you’re telling them that there’s no reason for them to try to do things on their own. Even though you think that you’re doing something helpful, you’re actually taking away some of their autonomy.

When your child can solve a problem on their own, they’ll be excited to solve more problems.

Have Them Complete Tasks for You

Does your child have chores or tasks around the house? You may think that chores are bad for children, but this isn’t true. By giving your child small tasks that they’re able to handle, you’re empowering them and teaching them valuable life skills.

There are plenty of age-appropriate chores for children that you can choose between. Pick ones that won’t be so difficult or stressful that your child won’t be able to complete them but will still be challenging.

Chores give your child structure.

We also recommend rewarding your child for their chores. An allowance or reward system teaches your child that hard work pays off.

Give Them Choices

How often does your child have options? As a parent, you need to make the final call in most situations, but it’s a good idea to give your child things to choose between. This gives them autonomy.

Start with small choices that are inconsequential to you as a parent. For example: ask your child if they want to ride their bike or go on a walk. Both of these activities are good for your child, and your level of effort won’t change much. The choice only matters to the child.

When your child feels as though they have some control over their life, they’ll feel more empowered. They’ll learn that they can trust their own instincts and decisions instead of relying on you to make decisions for them.

How Can I Be More Encouraging Towards My Child? Start Here

When you’re wondering, “How can I be more encouraging towards my child?” try a few of these tips. There are plenty of ways to encourage and empower your child at home. Click here for more information.

With the right encouragement, your child will have a great foundation for future confidence and success.

Do you want to give your child a strong head start by enrolling them in preschool? We want to meet them! Find a The Learning Experience center near you and enroll your child today.