How to encourage individuality in kids
Encouraging our kids to find their own individuality helps them feel confident and it boosts their self- esteem. When given the freedom to find out what they like and don’t like, we see from an early age their little personalities and character develop. Traits like kindness and respect, curiosity and creativity will be carried into their grown-up life.
Here are 5 ways to encourage individuality in children:
Providing a variety of extracurricular activities such as sports, arts and clubs. By introducing activities like ballet or soccer or piano lessons, you are opening their minds to new possibilities. From there, they will let you know if they enjoy it or not! Visiting museums or going to the theatre or even signing up for a junior cooking class can provide meaningful exploration. It gives them the opportunity to learn and develop their particular set of skills and talents and discover who they are.
2. As your child grows, so will their interests. It is our job to support and be present for them with the things that they love. You might not be a fan of Super Mario Bros or Barbie or understand the humor in Diary of a Wimpy Kid BUT your kids love it! So if it’s something that brings them joy, we should acknowledge it. They are going through self-discovery right now, which is key for their development. Hey, you never know, you might get enjoyment from reading a Diary of a Wimpy Kid to your little one!
3. Show enthusiasm; when they are passionate or proud of something. By showing that you care means a lot to them, it helps them feel self-assured and certain. It gives them an identity that they are looking for and knowing that there are adults who are backing what they love.
4. Having open communication with your child is important. Talking to your kids about everything and anything, even at an early age, lets them know they can talk to you about anything. Humans are social beings and we are created for connection on a scientific level. We rely on our interpersonal skills and teaching these skills to our youngsters will guide them to know how to connect with oneself and with the world.
5. Be there when they go through changes. One day it's Paw Patrol, the next it's Bey Blades or ice skating to martial arts. As they develop into their teens, changes come fast and hard. They start exploring different types of clothes and changing their appearance or pursuing different interests. It’s those transitions that they are learning to become themselves and embracing who they are and that’s perfectly normal.
As parents and caregivers, it’s important to support and strengthen their dreams. It is those dreams that create who they will become. We shouldn’t downplay what their ambitions are. Maybe they dream of being a doctor or a race car driver or maybe their dream is being a toy tester! Rest assured that encouraging your child to believe that they are capable of anything is a positive message that allows them to embrace who they are, to stand out from the crowd and be their authentic self. Regardless of what the rest of the world might say!
In my book “Don’t All Cats Eat Chicken?” Cooper and Chloe demonstrate what it means to be an individual and embrace who they are. Grab your copy today and share this delightful story with your kids.
