Debbie Early childhood development is an eight-year process that shapes your child’s future. These years of development influence social skills, future careers, and other elements of your child’s life.
Promoting your child’s well-being will prepare them for challenges in the future. Childhood development is a worthwhile pursuit that pays off over the long term.
We’ll share some strategies to promote early childhood development for your loved one.
1. Incorporate Basic Rules
You’ll need some basic rules to ensure your child develops. These basic rules teach your child the difference between right and wrong.
Simple rules such as being kind, helping others, and self-care assist with development. Some people struggle with these simple rules later in life. Not everyone had a role model to guide them and teach these basic rules.
Oak Hill Academy can instill basic rules and help your child follow them. These basic rules turn children into better adults.
Sometimes, your child will break these rules. They may act mean to someone or not help someone who could use it.
You shouldn’t be harsh as your child is still learning. However, you shouldn’t let it slide either. Letting disobedience slide leads to more disobedience.
Don’t punish children for breaking the rules, as this can create a disconnect and lead to a rebellious child. Instead, offer guidance and get them to accept responsibility.
2. Listen to Your Child
Children are still learning how the world works. They have strong emotions and need guidance. If a temper tantrum happens, don’t resort to yelling. The way you handle small situations will impact how you handle stressful situations.
Children want to know someone is listening to them. When they’re talking to you, put the phone down and give them your undivided attention. It’s disrespectful to look at your phone in general, but far worse when we’re talking about your child. When your child is experiencing strong emotions, move closer and get your body to their level. Bend on your knees if necessary and look your child in the eyes.
A gentle touch and soothing words will help them feel understood. Listening to your child will strengthen your relationship. They’ll feel more confident to share their thoughts with you and see you as a companion.
3. Spend More Time with Your Child
Spending time with your child is the best way to show that you care. You can talk a big game, but your child wants you in their life. They want you as a supportive role model; as this Vicarious Reinforcement: Connecting Through Others post suggests, your actions can directly affect how they act.
Spending time with your child will improve their social skills and ability to handle hardships. You’ll both be happier if you spend more time with your child.
Ask your child about their day, attend their sporting events, and do all of the small things. They add up for your child’s development.
Early Childhood Development Starts with You
Early child development starts with the parent. Providing your child with a loving environment will help them flourish in the future.
An early childhood development center can act as a strong complement, but nothing beats a supportive parent.
Want to learn more about child development? Continue reading this blog for additional insights and resources.
