As parents it is critical that we take the time to praise our children. Children in Primary are especially responsive to this type of praise. Children will begin to behave so that they can receive praise and hugs for their good behavior. A great deal of children’s behavior is focused on bringing attention to themselves. Children who misbehave constantly want the attention that this brings to them. By giving positive attention and praise you can help to limit negative behavior.
Have you ever had a day where you step back and look at the things you have said to your child? Some days you may be surprised to realize that most of the time you were saying no or criticizing a behavior. If your words are too negative or if you only give correction to your children, you may be lowering your child’s self esteem.
There are several ways to change behavior in a positive manner. For example if you need your son to sit reverently during family prayer, you can begin by complimenting your daughter who is sitting correctly. Your son will hear the praise and modify the behavior. It is amazing how well this works. Additionally if your child has a specific area that they have been struggling with, try to praise them in relation to that specific area whenever possible. It is important to praise sincerely. Children will not respond as well if the praise is not earned, and are less likely to modify the behavior.
Additionally you can make a goal to praise each child three separate times during the day. This helps to change your attitude as well, since you are focused on looking for positive behaviors instead of negative ones. A little one-on-one attention also goes a long way in helping negative behaviors to improve. If you have a good solid a relationship with your child, when you do have a serious behavior that needs to change, your child will be more receptive to what you are saying.
We are instructed to nurture our children as we raise them in the gospel. Children learn about the love of Heavenly Father in the way that we treat them. We should work to make sure our children feel loved. This includes teaching them responsibility and discipline. As we nurture our children and build their self-esteems they will be better prepared to meet life’s challenges.
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