Managing a child well is no easy task, especially if they are very young or have special needs.
On the sidelines of last year’s Leading Foundation Teacher Award, handed out on November 24, some of the year’s recipients shared helpful tips to help parents better understand their young children.
1. Invest time in your children
Ms A. Neshanthini Neelamohan, 33, who teaches at PCF Sparkletots Preschool @ Braddell Heights Block 246, said spending time with her children is crucial for their development.
However, some parents do not spend enough time with their children because they are often too busy with their work.
She said: “If you are a working parent, spend at least 10 minutes a day with them. Try to send them or pick them up from school. As small as it may sound, you still spend time with them. . “
Spending uninterrupted time communicating with them or doing an activity together is necessary to develop a more personal relationship, so that the child feels comfortable enough to tell you about their day or the challenges they have encountered or overcome. .
If parents start to develop this habit at a young age, it is easier to befriend them during their teenage years. Ultimately, this leads to developing a better understanding of your children.
2. Observe your own negative expressions
If your child is having a tantrum, there is always a trigger or reason behind it.
Find out what is the cause by asking them, Ms Neshanthini said.
She added: “Children want to be heard. Saying things like ‘Stop crying’ or ‘Boys don’t cry’ only adds to the chaos and rejects their emotions.
“Instead, give them options like, ‘Do you need anything? Or “What can I do to help?” “”
3. Have realistic expectations
Ms. Wong Jia Min, 34, from Fei Yue Community Services, said parents should avoid having high expectations of their children, especially if the child has special needs.
A common example is the high expectation that some parents have of their children’s academic excellence. This puts pressure on their children because these parents do not understand that their children have a learning disability, which means that they may not even be able to understand these instructions.
If necessary, seek help from professionals or extended family members, she said.