Humans have the ability to adapt to changes in their environment. But sometimes, it’s hard to accept changes especially if you are used to the old ways. Adults find it hard sometimes, and even kids feel the same. However, the only thing constant in this world is change. Whether we like it or not, we are susceptible to change and it is inevitable.Â
But children struggle with change, in particular. They may find it extra hard to accept and adapt to changes. That’s why parents need to master this skill and learn in helping a child adjust to change. Parents need to educate the child to accept changes optimistically.
Parents need to teach their kids that they may not be able to change the situation or the circumstance, but they can change themselves. They can change their reaction and approach to the situation. That is something they have. It is a way of adapting to change with optimism.
The truth is, the willingness to accept changes means that you want to learn and grow. You want to try new things, discover more horizons and step out of your comfort zone. When you embrace change, you embrace a better self. That is the concept that you need to emphasize in order to educate your child to accept changes optimistically.
Sometimes a child struggles with change. Here are some effective ways of helping a child adjust to change:
Confidently acknowledge the change
Aside from teaching the kids to accept changes, the first important thing is to train them to acknowledge when there are changes or challenges along the way. They should learn to identify and acknowledge it with confidence. They should not shy away or become scared about it. Parents should teach them the value of acknowledging challenges and being ready for it. It is also important that they learn to get through it even without their parents because parents are not always with them 24/7. Sometimes, they need to do things on their own. And it’s a good idea that parents teach them at an early age.
Accept the change with optimism
Your kids should soon realize that despite great effort, some changes are inevitable. That’s why parents should educate their kids that although we cannot always change the situation, we can always change our approach and reaction towards it. Parents will then insert the important role of accepting changes with optimism. Accepting changes optimistically or positively has a greater impact and better results than just simply accepting changes. Accepting changes positively is an active response, not a passive “let’s get it over with” attitude.
When kids learn to accept changes positively, they also are rewarded with new discoveries, growth, development, and new experiences. It will equip them to be better children and adults in the future. Nothing beats experience through age and personal journeys. That’s why children should know that change is not a whole scary thing. It may be scary at first, but afterward, it is rewarding. Parents need to inculcate to their children that perseverance and resilience are rewarded with priceless learnings and growth.
However, parents should realize that it is not an overnight project. It is not a fast process. It takes time for kids to learn what you are teaching them. That’s why parents should have much patience and perseverance in educating their kids.
Try to observe his response to change
Though parents may try hard to protect their kids from possible harm, they will eventually experience some drastic changes in their lives. These experiences are opportunities for parents to teach their kids the value of adaptability. Parents can first observe the reaction or response of their kids to changes. They may observe it over a period of time if there are any patterns. Parents can determine if their kids are fearful and anxious, or they are looking forward to new experiences. Sometimes it boils down to their personalities as well. But if parents observe a negative reaction towards change, the goal is to correct that attitude and pattern as early as possible so that it will not become entrenched.
Promote visions of positive outcomes
When changes are in the midst, find an appropriate time to talk to your kids. You can ask them to try to envision a positive outcome for the changes they are experiencing now. Encourage them to think of all the beautiful positive possibilities that the change may bring. This exercises the children’s minds to always think positively about things. If this is taught repeatedly, they may adopt this technique as well. When they are faced with changes, even without the presence of parents, they are more likely to think that way because their brains were trained to do so.
Parents should also remind their kids that thinking positively doesn’t mean that you are sugar-coating the reality of the changes, but it just goes to show you that keeping a positive outlook helps in making a positive outcome. Also, remember that some worst-case scenarios in our minds never really happen in real life. Most of the time, it was less bad than what we expected and we regret being anxious all the time and didn’t get to enjoy the experience. And if despite thinking positively, the outcome was worse, it is still a good idea to think positively on matters. Acknowledging that some things you can’t change but you can change your reaction helps in the process.Â
The truth is, when you start at an early age, you can really help and educate your child to accept changes optimistically. As long as you guide them in the right ways, they will eventually figure things out and you will just be surprised by how they can adapt to changes more positively. Parents need effort and patience in teaching their kids this skill but it is going to be worth your sacrifice. Seeing your kids doing well in life is the priceless reward parents can achieve.
Read also:
- How to Correct Bad Behavior in Kids?
- What are Some Psycho Behaviors in Kids
- How can Parents Encourage Good Behavior in Kids?
