Positive Attitude and your Child

In a world of constant change, many distractions and disappointments, many of our children may find it difficult to maintain a positive attitude. Having a positive attitude is believed to be one of the core characteristics of happy successful people. What is this thing called a positive attitude? Why is it important for our children to possess it in order to remain focused? Having a positive attitude means that regardless of the obstacles, challenges, or circumstance viewed as negative there is an optimistic view on life and one’s ability to succeed.

Positive attitude is not innate. It is an attitude that is learned and acquired over time. There are many ways we can encourage our children to have a positive attitude.

• Teach your children not to make negative statements about themselves such as “I can’t,” “I am dumb.” Negative statements lower their self esteem.

• Teach them that their thoughts shape their mood and destiny. Our thoughts have power. If our children focus on negative thoughts they will experience negative emotions. You should also explain that our thoughts become our words which are turned to action. Actions become habits while habits influence character and character determines destiny.

• Having a positive attitude is a choice. We can assist our children in understanding that they have the power to decide whether they are happy or sad irrespective of the circumstance.

• Encourage laughter. It is acceptable for our children to laugh at themselves from time-to-time. Laughter not only boosts attitude it also reduces stress, anxiety, tension and releases pent up energy. It enhances resilience and helps our children to be better able to handle unexpected events.

• Encourage your children to listen to music that teaches them how to deal with adversities.

• For young children it is important to read and discuss stories which teach them how to overcome adversities and maintain a positive attitude.

• Be a role model. The best people to teach children how to have a positive attitude are their parent.

When our children have a positive attitude they are:
• Happier
• More energetic
• Better able to motivate themselves
• Better able to achieve their goals faster
• Better able to have and maintain a good relationship with family and friends and
• They have a better self image. When they love and appreciate who they are and what they have they feel better about themselves