Accepting Our Child As They Are
Each and every child has a unique identity. Understanding our child and accepting them as is, with their likes, dislikes, exuberance, shyness, quirks, talents, strengths and personality type, will help them develop into being their best, truest, most authentic and positive self. Our child is not a replica of us nor are they the same as their sibling. We all have our individual distinctions that separates us from each other. Honoring this will tighten the parent child relationship.
Accepting our children for who they are, rather than trying to mold them into who we wish they were, is an important aspect of parenting. Each child is unique with their own set of strengths, weaknesses, and individuality. Here are some suggestions on how to practice acceptance:
Embrace their individuality: Recognize and appreciate your child's unique qualities, talents, and interests. Celebrate their individuality and encourage them to explore and express themselves authentically.
Focus on their strengths: Instead of constantly trying to change or fix perceived weaknesses, shift your focus to nurturing and developing your child's strengths. This can help build their confidence and self-esteem.
Avoid comparison: It's natural to compare our children to others, but it can be detrimental to their self-esteem and happiness. Understand that each child develops at their own pace and has their own path to follow.
Practice active listening: Take the time to truly listen to your child without judgment or interruption. By creating an open and non-judgmental space, you allow your child to share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences more freely.
Encourage open communication: Let your child know that they can always come to you with their concerns, problems, or questions. Foster a safe and supportive environment where they feel comfortable discussing anything without fear of rejection or criticism.
Cultivate empathy: Try to see things from your child's perspective and understand their emotions and experiences. This helps build a strong emotional connection and promotes understanding and acceptance.
Set realistic expectations: It's important to have expectations and boundaries for your child, but make sure they are realistic and take into account their individual abilities and limitations. Unrealistic expectations can lead to frustration and disappointment for both you and your child.
Seek support if needed: If you find it challenging to accept your child as they are, consider seeking support from a certified parent coach, therapist or counselor. They can provide guidance, help you navigate any difficulties, and offer strategies for practicing acceptance.
