It can be hard in this chaotic modern world to stay optimistic, especially with the 24/7 news cycle and constant social media updates and especially when you’re a child. Even without all this it’s difficult to stay positive all the time, particularly when facing obstacles or hardship; however, it’s important for children to learn that optimism is a trait we can cultivate, and doing so will help them tackle and overcome any problems or hurdles they face throughout life. Here are some tips on raising an optimistic child from a nursery in Harpenden.
Challenge pessimistic thinking
Pay attention to how your child thinks about things that happen to them; when facing hurdles, do they embrace them with confidence that it’ll all work out, or do they immediately catastrophise and jump to negative conclusions? If it’s the latter, try to challenge this way of thinking – point out that problems are rarely permanent, not always personal, and most importantly that your child can actively do something to influence the outcome. They need to hear that they’re not powerless in the face of adversity.
Demonstrate optimism
The most important thing you can do to teach optimism is model it yourself. Make sure your child sees you approaching setbacks and obstacles with positivity, even though it might be difficult. If they see you constantly complaining and talking about the worst case scenario, they’ll likely copy this behaviour in their own interactions with life. Get your child involved in exploring the bright side of any difficulties you’re facing – you could make a game of finding the silver lining in any challenge or problem.
Cultivate independence
Encouraging your child to tackle obstacles and overcome them on their own will boost their confidence and self-esteem. This in turn will have a positive knock on effect when they next face a problem or challenge, as they’ll have learnt that they’re capable of rising to it without assistance. It’s tempting as a parent to try and rescue our child when we see them struggling with something, but if we do that all the time (or too quickly) they’ll never learn what they’re capable of (and the positive mindset that comes with that).
Explore gratitude
People who are grateful for the things they have in life tend to be more optimistic, so help your child cultivate a daily gratitude practice. They could write down all the things they’re grateful for in a journal or you could discuss gratitude at dinner time – anything to make it a regular habit which helps encourage an optimistic outlook on life.
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