WAYS TO TELL CHILDREN THEY ARE IMPORTANT

I've included a poem here that was published in the my children's school newsletter. It's for the parents among us who are juggling uni and running the homefront:

WAYS TO TELL CHILDREN THEY ARE IMPORTANT

Tell them often that you love them for who they are.

Show them that you love them by spending time together, listening to them, giving them lots of hugs and smiles.

Celebrate their achievements , no matter how small.

Praise them for trying, no matter what the outcome.

Keep special reminders of their successes and milestones.

Let them help you do things

Let them know that it is OK to make mistakes;its all part of learning.

Help them to build on their strengths.

Ask their opinions on family matters. It show you care about what they think.

Help them to solve their own problems. Show them that you have faith in them.

Make limits and expectations clear and consistent.

Givew feedback about inappropriate behaiour, but don't criticize your child.

Feedback should aim to teach, not hurt your child.

by Vicki Caldow