How can you enhance the skills of problem solving and decision making in your child

We all know life presents each of us with many challenges and problems over the course of lifetime. Today we often see many kids do not have the skills to solve problems. They usually shut themselves or run away from the situation when faced with a problem. Hence it is very important part of parenting role to teach them skills of problem solving and decision making right from an early age. As they grow up they will face many challenges and problems which they will have to solve without the help of others. Also these skills are keys to their happiness, personal fulfillment, self esteem, relationships, finances, faith, self esteem, health, work and spiritual development. If your child never learns to evaluate a situation and make sound decisions, he will suffer for it in all of the above mentioned areas of his life. 

Most of the parents do not give opportunities to their children to solve problems or make decisions. They want to protect their kids from the troubles of the world. They are always there to point out the right direction, or worse to solve problems for them. By doing this you are hampering your child’s personal growth and maturity. On the other side if you let your child explore and provide him with opportunities and experiences to deal with situation by evaluating them, it will encourage numerous skills that will empower the kids and foster independence in them. It is the responsibility of the parents to prepare their children to deal with their own problems. Learning these skills is much like other kinds of learning that take place in childhood. It is built gradually through experience with trial and error, layer upon layer over a period of time.

What role can parent’s play to teach decision making and problem solving skills in children?

• Throughout childhood make all bottom line decisions regarding your child’s safety, health and well being.
• Always encourage your child to be a question asker and information gatherer. Do not discourage him when he is inquisitive.
• The child should be given opportunities to make age appropriate choices and decisions in his daily life.
• When it comes to daily problems do not provide ready answers let your child brainstorm about possible solutions.
• Whenever he makes a good decision and solution in action, praise him for it.
• It is important that you be a good decision maker and problem solver, role model to your child.
• Help the child think through the consequences of her decisions.
• Be there and provide emotional safety net for your child along the way as there are bound to be some mistakes in choices and solutions.
• Your child might become fearful of failure if you overreact to mistakes and he might become reluctant to make future choices or find solutions. 

As a parent we want to see our children eventually navigate their own course in life. But to help them navigate they should become a good problem solver and decision maker. The ordinary ups and downs of childhood make a good arena for learning. But it is important that you should as a parent pick and choose which problems they are equipped to deal with which are beyond their capability. For a child making a mistake is the most valuable way to learn, parents should refrain from offering suggestions and giving commands unless it is a serious matter which can deeply affect the child. They should follow communication methods that allow the children to give their opinion and choices.

As a parent you have experienced and learned a lot about life through your many ups and downs. You can use this wisdom and life experience to work to help your child. Problem solving and decision making skills help your child choose the right path that moves towards happiness and fulfillment.

Does Encouragement help your child to build his self-esteem

As a parent you must be clear about your role. At all the stages of child’s life parents should consistently offer loving encouragement, support and guidance. This will help in his growth and development. It is vital that you develop your child to his full potential which includes physical, spiritual, emotional, social and intellectual. This factor plays a crucial role in the life of children who are seen to better succeed in college, careers and life endeavors. The bond between the children and parents greatly strengthen when parents take genuine interests in their kids work. The most effective way of helping your child is by not controlling his directions or goals but by offering ideas, inputs and suggestions. 

What is parent’s role in encouragement and recognition?

• Throughout childhood praise your child’s efforts everyday
• Your child imitates your behavior so always live your life in an optimistic, can-do, problem solving way.
• As a parent you must show pride whenever your child makes progress in overcoming obstacles and shows improvement in his behavior. Compliment his efforts.
• Learn to ignore minor failures and setbacks, concentrate to focus on his successes.
• All the events that are significant to your child should be attended by you to extend support to him.
• In every aspect of your child’s life help your child to take note of his progress.
• Develop a positive attitude in your child and adopt words like “I know you can do it”. Always believe in him and show that to him with your words and behavior.

By consistently giving encouragement and positive attention to your child you are building block for effective discipline. The foundation of your loving relationship with him helps in establishing guidelines and setting limits throughout your his life. It is the most important role of the parent to encourage their children to be a whole and complete human being who makes the most of their talents, intelligence and inner strength to live a good and happy life. He is able to shape up his self esteem due to your appreciation and encouragement that are so crucial to your child. When you believe in your child and make him feel that he is important, valuable and capable person soon he will start believing this about himself. Your constant praise helps him to develop his self esteem but it is more developed from your child’s belief in his own competence and worth. 

Stay involved in your child’s daily life and spend quality time with him to understand his strengths and weaknesses. Express your appreciation for your child each and every day and also to others in conversation. If your child has taken on extra responsibility or has accomplished something important praise him and recognize this special occasion with a family celebration. You can cook his favorite dinner or dessert or buy him a gift. Always remember your child needs heartfelt enthusiasm and encouragement from you. Children always want and need their parent’s acceptance and understanding. Your children cannot be good at everything so encourage them to explore their interests and let them do their best. It is the responsibility of the parents to offer them encouragement and support especially when their performance falls short. A powerful team is formed when the parents align themselves with the hope and dreams of their children. These kids are likely to attain their full potential when they are exposed to real life situations. 

Parents should encourage their child to develop positive attitude, learn from the experience and in case of failures should try again. This is how a child matures.