Today's Tip for Families

10-11-2022

Treat a Negative Outlook in Positive Ways

Some children seem to be born in a bad mood. As babies, they fuss about everything. And, researchers say, that negative outlook may not change much as they grow.

You may not be able to change your child's personality. But you can react to it in positive ways.

Here are some tips:

  1. Accept your child. Telling a serious or worried child constantly to "cheer up" can provoke unhappiness. Your child is not negative on purpose.
  2. Don't pay excessive attention when your child is negative. That teaches kids use negative behavior as a tool for getting parent's attention.
  3. Listen to complaints—up to a point. Your child needs to be able to express honest feelings and feel heard. But constant repetition won't help.
  4. Change the topic when complaining goes on and on. Ask a question about something your child feels positive about.
  5. Focus on your child's positive traits. Keep what you like about your child in mind.

Brought to you by:

Webster County Schools

[School Success Ideas for Families]

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