Being a parent comes with many challenges and responsibilities, especially during the first few years. Of course, upon bringing a new life into the world, you would need to ensure that you are always there to guide your children since they still can’t care for themselves.
As they age, they slowly become more curious about anything and everything around them, which is a good sign because it can further expand their skills and knowledge. But external factors could negatively affect their overall growth along the way. So what can you do?
Develop Better Recognition
Usually, as early as age 2, kids would already have the ability to learn basic skills, such as putting toys back in their right places, participating in pretend play, putting on their clothes, and the like. At the same time, they would also begin to recognize faces, sounds, and pictures. So as much as possible, parents should provide labels to help children make better associations as they go along.
Technology Can Serve as a Guide
Fortunately, in today’s society, it is already possible to acquire the information we need within seconds, and we have technology to thank for that. Whether you would want to use a television or any gadget, there would always be available content to help kids learn.
Once they are capable enough, they could even play online games from time to time, provided you are there to monitor them. Of course, besides studying, children would also need to have the freedom to enjoy and do other activities they like.
Encourage Them to Try Something New
Eventually, having access to such tools and apps can allow one to discover a hobby as well. It could be painting, playing a musical instrument, cooking, dancing, etc. There are many options to choose from, so you should encourage them to try as many as they can because doing these can be of great help to honing their talents.
For instance, if you notice that your child loves watching shows that involve a lot of singing and dancing, you can visit a nearby studio during the summer and ask if there are rehearsal rooms for rent or workshops that you can enroll them in. Not only will they get to better their skills, but they can also make some new friends along the way.
Influence Them to Be Empathetic
But besides prioritizing their physical and cognitive development, it would be wise for parents to educate their children regarding the importance of empathy. Because even if one manages to excel in the academic department, lacking emotional intelligence might hinder them from achieving all their goals in life.
This is why you need to set a good example as early as possible. You can start by treating them the way that you want them to treat you. This is probably one of the easiest ways to instill the value of respect to children, especially since they have a habit of mimicking what they see and hear.
However, because they would also get exposed to external factors, they might adopt some bad behavior. So you should discipline them every once in a while. By doing this, children might find it easier to make a clear distinction between good and bad as the days pass.
You Are Their First Teacher
Parents are a child’s first teachers. So even if you are tired from working, doing household chores, or running errands, you should find the time to educate your child. But you should not worry because there is no right or wrong way of raising them. As long as you establish a consistent balance, it would be easier for you to develop a great relationship.
With the help of technology, you now even have the option to guide them by using educational videos, games, and other online activities. Sooner or later, the things they see and hear can inspire them to try new hobbies, which is also an essential part of their growth. But on top of supporting their academic and non-academic pursuits, parents must instill the importance of respect and empathy because possessing these values can help them succeed in the long run.