Independence. Children need to be nurtured to become more and more independent as they grow up. Many adults need to learn to be more independent as well. Strive to increase your child’s independence a little bit at a time.
- Giving your child additional responsibilities as they get older will help with this. Depending on their age they can start doing more and more things around the house – loading and unloading the dishwasher, doing their own laundry, mowing the lawn, cooking basic meals etc.
Being content when alone. Some children are incapable of spending even 15 minutes without the attention of others. As children grow up, they learn to attach to other things to find contentment. Buying silly things, the Internet, food, video games, and more can all become addictions in their own way to avoid being alone.
- There is a great power in being able to amuse yourself. It makes life easier, with fewer destructive temptations.
Compassion. The ability to work well with others and control our own anger is directly tied to our ability to be compassionate toward others. Strive to be more compassionate in your everyday life and teach your children the same. Being compassionate is one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself and your children.
