How can you get to know your child

We are often wonder, do we really know our child? As a parent we know their likes and dislikes but when we talk of knowing it actually means understanding their behavior, challenges, weaknesses, strengths and talents. Each child is unique with a special personality and look of his own. The greatest journey of parenting is to find your way with your child. The same basic ingredients of good parenting are required by all children.  For good growing each child in the family needs your love, commitment, encouragement, nurturing, discipline and guidance. Any parent raising more than one child knows that each child has individual personality differences making it a more challenging task for the parents. Your daily role as a parent can be more effective if you can understand your child’s personality and temperament. 

Getting to know your child:

Some parents can recognize distinct personality traits of their child from the first moments and weeks of life. While for others it can take years to be able to put together the signs of their child’s personality, interests and temperament. It is vital to discover your unique child to make his way in the world. Observe keenly and take into account his strengths, talents and shortcomings. With consistent guidance of love you can minimize shortcomings and accentuate the strength. To know and understand your child, become a quiet observer. As a parent you can know your child better than anyone else in the world. Throughout childhood you should be there to listen to your child’s thoughts, feelings and recollections. Be a good, thoughtful listener. For any problem or challenge that arises apply what you know about your child. The key is to spend time with your child and pay attention to their likes, dislikes and interests. 

Some everyday opportunities to know you child:

• The process of knowing your child begins the day she is born and continues throughout all the years of childhood. You tend to learn something new all the time. The daily opportunities include:
• Observing you child at home and in other social environment interacting with others.
• Spend quality time alone with your child.
• Be there for your child. Listen to her thoughts, feelings and problems.
• Observe the way your child approaches problems.
• Keep track of your child by talking to her school teachers and others if they are into any sports or activities to know their temperament.
• The best way to solve any problem regarding your child is by spending some time alone and reflecting on what you know about your child and apply this information.
• Every child is unique and you should express your pride, appreciation and love for her.
• Interact and talk with other adults who care for your child to know their observations about her.

We often talk about how parental genes affect a child’s nature and behavior. But more than that they are affected by the environment around them and the way we nurture them. By having positive attitude to know and understand your child. Do not label her. Labeling is limiting rather than encouraging. Do not cater to all her whims as by doing this you are not understanding your child but spoiling her. No matter how unique and wonderful your child is, they have to find their way to fit into real world. Every child has a deep emotional need to be understood and appreciated by you. The most important thing is the way you live each day together with your child helps her to shape her personality.