C.L. Hendricks has been a Jill-of-all-trades and become an expert in some. She writes for InvitingSmiles about baby shower invitations, as well as a number of other baby and parenting-related topics.
Every child is born with a personality. Some cry all the time, some sleep all the time, some are patient, and others have no patience at all. As your baby grows older, it will be important to teach patience.
Instant gratification has become a part of our world. Hungry… order fast food. Bored… play video games. Need information… look on your computer: quick, easy, and fast! Unfortunately, this can engender impatience in children and adults when forced to wait for anything.
Parents can help their impatient children by slowing down. Do not overload your children with activities. Kids need down time, just as we do. Quiet time helps a child think about their day and allows their minds to relax. Here are some other suggestions:
* Ask your children to help cook. Cooking is a whole process of patience. Following the recipe, waiting for the oven to preheat, waiting for the water to boil, etc. Do not forget to exhibit patience yourself.
* Start a small flower garden with your child by planting seeds. Planting a seed in a cup and putting it in the window will work as well. The child will learn responsibility by keeping the soil moist, patience in waiting for the seed to sprout, and satisfaction at seeing the plant bloom.
* Plan a few evenings watching the sunset. This can be a wonderful bonding time. Talk softly, keeping a serene atmosphere. Your child will enjoy moments that are usually taken for granted, like a beautiful sunset.
* Family board games, cards and puzzles are all wonderful activities that help practice patience by waiting for another player to make his move. Your child will also learn the enjoyment of winning, and the possibility of defeat.
* Most importantly acknowledge your child’s patience when you see it. Make a point to notice when he is standing in line and being patient. He does not need a special reward, just a simple acknowledgment that you appreciate his good behavior.
A patient child has many advantages, even health advantages. Impatience is very stressful on the mind and body. Patience allows better self-control to think things through before reacting. Patience is truly a virtue.
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