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Home › Articles › Parenting Strategies › Positive Thinking for Kids

Positive Thinking for Kids

Help Them See the Bright Side

By Elizabeth Pantley

Pages:  1  2  

During their growth and development, children go through many stages of self-doubt. They are always comparing themselves to others, and they often see themselves as coming up short. As parents, we can offset this natural tendency in our children by giving them the skills to think more positively. It is important that you really listen to your children, and help them overcome their negative thoughts and beliefs. This is, of course, easier to do if you practice positive thinking yourself.

Our world is so full of negative feedback. We need to arm our children with a positive attitude, so that they can stay focused in the right direction. Let's look at some typical negative statements from children, along with some positive responses from their wise parents:

I can't do it.
Take your time and try again. I have confidence in you.

Heather hates me.
Sounds like you're feeling rejected by Heather, and that must hurt. I know you want Heather to like you. Remember that you're a very lovable kid and a terrific person, no matter what Heather, or anyone else, says or does. And, you know, she may have a problem that has nothing to do with you.

I'm just no good in history.
You've brought up Cs before -- I know you can do it again. Besides that, honey, nobody is good at everything. And look at this A in math, you've always done well with numbers!


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