Newswise — Too often, newspaper headlines tell the story of an adult whose troubled childhood influences his actions decades later. Look no further than Florida Representative Mark Foley, whose history of sex abuse continues to affect him as an adult. Or the gunman who targeted a quiet Amish community. Stressful events from his past may have played a role in the destructive path he took as a grown man.
Dr. Kristy Hagar, a child psychologist at Children's Medical Center Dallas, says it is important to nurture a child's resiliency so the stress, pressure and adversity he or she experiences during childhood does not have a negative impact later in life.
"Resilient children possess a view of the world that enables them to meet challenges and pressures. Resilience conveys a sense of optimism, ownership and personal control," she explains in her book Seven Steps to Improve Your Child's Social Skills. "Resilient children can translate this view into effective action."
Dr. Hagar explains that resilience is not acquired from a pill or a class, but rather is taught and nurtured by parents.
"Parents who possess an understanding of important principles, ideas and actions contribute to the formation of a resilient mindset in their children."
Dr. Hagar offers the following tips for nurturing resiliency in kids."¢ Make your child feel special and appreciated."¢ Love unconditionally."¢ Celebrate your child's skills and competence. "¢ Teach your child to learn from his mistakes."¢ Cultivate your child's sense of responsibility, compassion and social conscience.
RSS