Summer is a golden time for parents and children to bond, and many parents focus on how to enhance this relationship effectively during this period. Encouragement, a key to parent-child communication, not only boosts a child's confidence but also helps them develop resilience in the face of adversity. Positive encouragement supports emotional development and brings harmony and happiness to the family.
Clinical psychologist Yeh Chieh-hsin points out that encouragement not only promotes emotional exchanges between parents and children but also helps children gain positive recognition of their actions. When children feel validated by their parents, they are more willing to try harder and demonstrate stronger problem-solving abilities when facing difficulties. Yeh emphasizes that "timing is crucial." Whether a child is facing setbacks or performing well, timely and appropriate encouragement helps build inner motivation and self-belief in overcoming challenges.
Three Key Encouragement Techniques: Make Children Feel Valued and Supported
Effective encouragement requires skills. Yeh provides three simple and practical techniques:
- Describe the Child’s Behavior: Specifically point out what the child did well, such as, “I saw you put away your toys by yourself today—great job!” This helps children understand why they are being recognized.
- Address Their Feelings: Express understanding and support for their emotions, such as, “I see that this problem was tough and you felt frustrated; I get it.” This approach shows children that their parents are on their side, facing challenges together.
- Focus on Effort and Progress: Even if the results aren’t perfect, acknowledge the effort, for example, “You haven’t completely mastered this concept yet, but your willingness to keep trying is something to be proud of.”
Parents can convey trust and care to their children through genuine expressions, tone of voice, and non-verbal gestures such as hugs. (Photo / Sourced from Pixabay)
Four Reminders: Build Positive Interactions with Sincerity and Trust
Encouraging children comes with important reminders. First, focus on the child’s effort rather than overemphasizing the outcome to avoid overwhelming pressure. Secondly, express encouragement sincerely, using tone, expressions, and body language to convey genuine care and trust.
Additionally, parents should teach children to encourage themselves, helping them stay strong and optimistic when facing challenges. Lastly, remember to encourage yourself in the parenting journey, maintaining a positive mindset to grow alongside your child and foster a solid parent-child relationship.
The "Yannick Sketching Contest—Parent-Child Day" celebrates its 20th year, featuring the theme “Encourage with Love.” Parents are urged to follow the “41 More Love” principle: offering positive encouragement and attentive listening for at least four days a week and one hour each time, enriching parent-child interactions and helping children grow in love and support.
