Parenting Tip: “Parenting Insight You Can Use Now”
Posted on 08. Dec, 2009 by noelle in News
Some children have a hard time honoring others because they are so self-focused. How can you help children think about other people instead of always thinking about themselves? One helpful way is to teach kids to recognize emotions in others and then know how to respond accordingly.
One dad wanted to work on honor with his seven-year-old daughter, Diane, who was self-centered, always talking and thinking about herself. He used a journal and, in the evening, asked Diane to identify examples of a friend or family member who was sad, mad, or glad that day. Then he asked the question, “How might you respond to that person in a helpful way?”
When her brother is mad, it might be best to leave him alone or to just ask a helpful question. With her friend who is sad, she could offer to help and then listen empathetically. When Mom is glad, Diane could enter into that gladness by listening to the story and enjoying the situation too.
Dad and Diane continued this exercise every evening for two weeks. Over time, Diane was able to think outside of herself, look at the needs and feelings of others. This led to a greater ability to show honor as well.
For more ideas about teaching honor, consider the book, Say Goodbye to Whining, Complaining, and Bad Attitudes in You and Your Kids by Dr Scott Turansky and Joanne Miller, RN, BSN.
The National Center for Biblical Parenting has given permission to use this tip.
Visit them at http:www.biblicalparenting.org