How to Raise an Optimistic Child

Optimism is important because it allows us to overcome challenges in a healthy way, take risks and try new things, including meeting new people. It allows us to see the good in the world and look forward to the future. Raising an optimistic child is easier said than done, but with the right attitude you can make it happen. Here’s some advice from a private school in Middlesex.

As with anything you’re trying to teach your child, you should lead by example. Provide them with an optimistic environment where complaining is kept to a minimum and, instead, you focus on all of things you appreciate about life. At mealtimes, you could encourage each member of your family to share something they’re grateful for or something they’re looking forward to in the coming weeks, to help them have a positive attitude.

Try not to be too hard on your child when things go wrong. Teach them that all humans make mistakes and mess up from time to time, even adults, and the trick is to learn from those mistakes and move forward in a positive direction. For instance, if they break something, try not to yell and simply tell them not to repeat the same behaviour in the future. If they fail an exam, remind them that there will be opportunities in the future to try again. If they are frightened of how you will react to their missteps, they will grow to be anxious.

Give your child some basic responsibilities around the house that they can easily achieve and praise them when they complete the tasks successfully. Slowly but surely, make these tasks a little more challenging. This will show them that you trust them and that they can do anything they set their mind to. As a result, they won’t shy away from challenges in the future; they will have the independence and faith in their abilities to try no matter what.