During the formative years of their life, kids are still trying to decipher who they are. During this self-discovery phase, they’ll explore an assortment of interests; but to explore them successfully, they need your help! Here are four ways to encourage your child’s interests and help them find their sense of self.
Give Them the Tools They Need
Your child can’t explore their interests if they don’t have the tools to do so. And since kids can’t drive to the store themselves to pick up what they need, you need to do that for them.
If your child likes to paint, take them to get brushes and canvases. If they like soccer, get them a ball, or if they like space, buy books or potentially a telescope. By giving them the tools they need to succeed, you encourage them to explore and develop their hobbies.
Don’t Push Them
You want to encourage your child’s interests, but too much encouragement can be overwhelming! Let your child explore their interests on their own time. Don’t force it on them, or they could quickly grow tired of something they once loved.
Be Enthusiastic
Nothing is worse than excitedly telling your parents about something you love only to receive scorn or disinterest. If you want your child to explore their interests, you need to be encouraging and enthusiastic. You may not think that art, sports, or geology is interesting, but if that’s what your child is into, listen to them when they talk about it, smile, and ask questions. Your participation will mean the world to them!
Decorate Their Room
What’s better than being surrounded by what you love? Your child’s room is a sacred space that’s just for them where they can show off their personality freely. By helping your child theme their room according to their interests, you show that you understand and support their hobbies and respect their self-expression and individuality.
Plus, your child will love to spend time in a room decorated just for them. Your stubborn sleeper might finally embrace nap time if they get to do it in a bed with bedsheets that they chose themselves!
By using these tips for encouraging your child’s interests, you can help your child try out all kinds of new activities and aid them in their search for who they are.
