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Why Young Boys Like Cars

Hi,

In today’s fast-paced world, many children are hyperactive for various reasons. Young boys, especially by the age of 9 or 10, tend to be physically active, filled with energy, and in a crucial stage of brain and body development. While hyperactivity is common, it does not necessarily indicate conditions like ADHD.

One factor worth considering is the limited time kids see their parents reading books. Many parents, especially in South Asian (or “Desi”) communities, are often on their phones. Children naturally mimic what they observe, so they frequently pick up or ask for phones, influenced by what they see at home.

Recently, a parent asked me happywhy young boys are so drawn to cars. I believe this attraction has to do with their high energy levels and the challenge they feel when playing games. Many children today spend time on racing games, which foster a competitive, win-at-all-costs mindset. This may fuel their fascination with cars, speed, and competition.

Additionally, kids may lack exposure to calming activities, as many haven’t observed their parents engaging in practices like meditation, prayer, or yoga. Without these examples of relaxation, children may lean toward high-energy activities instead. Ultimately, their interest in different car models and the thrill of racing is a reflection of both their environment and their developmental stage.

#Happyparenting #Healthyparenting

Israr Sayed

6 principals of Appreciation

  1.                          The Power of Appreciation 

                             Series: Courage to Encourage

Appreciation is one of the simplest yet most profound gestures we can extend to others. In a world that often focuses on criticism and pointing out flaws, acknowledging someone’s efforts and achievements can be a game-changer. Whether in parenting, professional environments, or personal relationships, the power of appreciation has a ripple effect, creating positive energy that transcends boundaries.

 

 

 

 

The Transformative Impact of Appreciation

Appreciation does more than lift someone’s spirits—it transforms the environment. When people feel appreciated, they are more motivated, confident, and likely to continue contributing positively. This is true for children and adults alike. Whether you’re a parent encouraging your child, a manager uplifting your team, or a friend offering support, appreciation can turn the ordinary into extraordinary.

Yet, it takes courage to appreciate. It involves looking beyond outcomes and seeing the efforts, progress, and small victories others might miss. But this courage to encourage is a skill worth cultivating for anyone looking to bring out the best in those around them.

 

 

How to Appreciate Effectively

As part of the *Courage to Encourage* video series, I explored ways to make appreciation impactful. Here are some key insights on appreciating others thoughtfully:

 1. Be Specific When Praising

Generic praise, while well-intentioned, often falls flat. Telling someone, “Good job” is nice, but it lacks the depth needed to make them feel truly seen. Being specific in your appreciation makes all the difference. For example, instead of saying, “You did great,” say, “I really admire how you stayed focused during that tough situation and found a creative solution.” Specific praise shows that you’re paying attention and value your effort.

 

 

 

 2. Praise the Effort and Progress, Not Just the End Result

Focusing on the journey rather than just the destination is crucial. Whether someone has succeeded or not, respecting their journey fosters resilience and a growth mentality. A parent might tell their child, for example, “I noticed how much time you spent practicing for the exam, and that dedication is something to be proud of.” This method teaches that efforts are worthwhile and that failures can serve as teaching moments rather than as excuses to give up. Whether someone has succeeded or not, respecting their journey fosters resilience and a growth mentality. A parent might tell their child, for example, “I noticed how much time you spent practicing for the exam, and that dedication is something to be proud of.” This method teaches that hard work is worthwhile and that failures can serve as teaching moments instead of

 

 

 

3. Separate Praise from Correction

Balancing praise and constructive feedback is essential but must be done mindfully. Offering appreciation and correction simultaneously can dilute both messages. If you’ve praised someone and immediately followed up with a suggestion for improvement, the positive message may get lost. Instead, praise and correction should occur at different times to allow both to be internalized. This approach creates a space where people can absorb the appreciation and understand the feedback without feeling diminished.

The Courage to Encourage: Why It Matters

Appreciation is a powerful tool, but it also requires vulnerability. It takes courage to express genuine gratitude and recognize another’s efforts, especially when it’s easier to point out flaws or criticize. But when you choose encouragement over critique, you open doors to trust, collaboration, and mutual growth.

In leadership, whether in the home or workplace, those who encourage others foster environments of safety and creativity. People thrive when they feel supported and valued, and that emotional fuel drives innovation, performance, and well-being.

The Ripple Effect of Appreciation

 

 

 

The power of appreciation doesn’t stop at the individual—it has a ripple effect that extends far beyond. When you appreciate someone, they’re more likely to pass that positivity on to others. Think of it as planting a seed of goodwill; once nurtured, it grows and spreads into something far greater than the initial gesture.

Children who grow up in homes where appreciation is practiced regularly tend to have healthier self-esteem and are more empathetic toward others. Employees in workplaces where appreciation is part of the culture are more engaged and invested in the company’s success.

 Conclusion

In a fast-paced world where achievements often overshadow efforts, taking the time to appreciate others can seem like a small act, but it carries immense power. It’s a tool for transformation, not only in others but also in ourselves. When we dare to encourage, we create a culture of support, growth, and positivity, which benefits everyone involved.

So, take a moment today to express genuine appreciation—be specific, acknowledge the effort, and let the praise stand on its own. You never know how far a little encouragement can go.

This blog reflects the core principles from the *Courage to Encourage* series, reminding us of the incredible impact appreciation can have on our lives and the lives of others. Keep encouraging and watch the magic unfold!

The Art of Connection: Mastering the Six Principles of Appreciation in Parenting

In our busy lives, fostering a deep connection with our children can sometimes feel like an uphill battle. Yet, the foundation of a strong parent-child relationship lies in effective communication and genuine appreciation. By mastering the art of connection through the principles of appreciation, you can nurture your child’s self-esteem, resilience, and emotional intelligence. Here are six key principles to help you build this vital connection.

1. Be Specific When Praising

Vague compliments can feel hollow to children. Instead of a simple “Good job!” be specific about what you appreciate. This clarity helps children understand exactly what behavior to repeat. For example, say, “I love how you worked so hard on your art project; your attention to detail is impressive!” This not only boosts their confidence but also reinforces positive behaviors.

Why It Matters:
Specific praise helps children recognize their strengths and understand what they did well, encouraging them to continue those behaviors in the future.

2. Praise the Efforts and Progress, Not Just the Results

Children are often result-oriented, but it’s crucial to celebrate the journey. When you acknowledge their effort and progress—regardless of the outcome—you instill a growth mindset. For instance, if your child didn’t ace a test but studied hard, say, “I’m really proud of the effort you put into studying. That’s what matters!”

Why It Matters:
This principle helps children understand that learning and improvement are ongoing processes, reducing the fear of failure and promoting resilience.

3. Praise and Correction Should Be Separated

Timing is everything. When you need to correct a behavior, do it at a different time than when you give praise. For example, if your child misbehaves, address it calmly when emotions have settled. Praise can then be given at moments that showcase positive behavior. This separation helps children absorb both the praise and the correction without feeling overwhelmed.

Why It Matters:
This approach fosters a safe emotional space, allowing children to appreciate your praise without conflating it with criticism.

4. Praise Must Be Genuine and Sincere

Children are perceptive; they can tell when praise is insincere. Always be authentic in your compliments. If you’re struggling to find something positive to say, it’s okay to acknowledge that they tried their best, even if the outcome wasn’t ideal. For example, “I appreciate how you put in the effort to try something new, even if it was challenging.”

Why It Matters:
Genuine praise builds trust and strengthens your bond, showing your child that you truly see and value their efforts.

5. Praise in Public, Correct in Private

Public acknowledgment can boost a child’s confidence significantly. Whether at family gatherings, school events, or playdates, take moments to highlight their achievements. Conversely, when corrections are necessary, address them in private. This ensures your child feels supported rather than embarrassed, maintaining their dignity.

Why It Matters:
This balance not only nurtures their self-esteem but also fosters a sense of security, knowing that they have your unconditional support.

6. Accent the Positive

In every situation, try to highlight the positives. When faced with challenges, encourage your child to focus on what went well and what they learned, rather than dwelling on mistakes. For example, if they strike out in a game, remind them of their great teamwork or how they improved from last week.

Why It Matters:
Focusing on the positives encourages resilience, allowing children to navigate setbacks with a constructive attitude.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of connection through these six principles of appreciation can profoundly impact your relationship with your children. By being specific, celebrating effort, timing your praise and corrections wisely, being genuine, recognizing them publicly, and accentuating the positives, you cultivate an environment of love and understanding. Remember, the goal is to build a strong connection that nurtures your child’s growth and self-worth. Start practicing these principles today, and watch as your relationship flourishes, creating lasting bonds that will carry them through life.Continue reading

Transform Your Parenting in 7 Days: The Proven Power of ACE

Have you ever felt like your efforts as a parent go unnoticed? That the endless sacrifices, sleepless nights, and heartfelt moments just don’t seem to resonate with your child? What if I told you that a simple shift—rooted in the power of appreciation—could transform your family dynamic and create a home filled with love, respect, and connection? 🌾


The Power of Appreciation: A Time-Honored Secret Passed Through Generations

In every home, there’s something magical that happens during family gatherings, meal times, or quiet moments—it’s the silent appreciation that ties us together. But have you ever wondered how powerful this appreciation could truly be when made intentional?

As parents, we often get caught up in the hustle of doing for our families—managing the household, working, worrying—that we forget to express our appreciation out loud. This small but impactful shift can be the key to unlocking deeper connections.


The ACE Framework: A Simple Parenting Shift

Introducing the ACE framework: Appreciation, Courage, Encouragement. A simple, easy-to-remember acronym designed to help you nurture your child with intention, using values that have stood the test of time.


1. Appreciation (A)

It starts with appreciation. Every parent loves their child, but how often do we express that love in words?

  • When was the last time you said to your child, “I really appreciate how you helped with the chores today”?
  • Or told your spouse, “You’re doing such an amazing job balancing everything”?

In many homes, appreciation often comes in the form of actions—preparing meals with love, doing laundry, or tidying up. But, spoken appreciation can reach the heart faster. Imagine how it feels for your child or partner to hear those words and know they are seen.

Example: Moms

Picture a mother lovingly preparing snacks for her child after a long school day. Now, imagine if she paired it with, “I’m so proud of how hard you worked today. I really appreciate you.” 💖 The impact of words, along with actions, can create a profound bond.


2. Courage (C)

Next comes courage—the courage to step out of our comfort zones as parents and guide our children through their own challenges. Parents often avoid discussing difficult topics, be it emotions, fears, or failures. But true courage lies in creating a safe space for our children to express themselves without fear of judgment.

Example: Dads

Many fathers are raised in environments where emotions aren’t often discussed. But imagine a dad sitting with his teenage daughter, telling her, “It’s okay to feel lost sometimes. I felt that way too when I was your age, but I’m here to guide you.”
Feel how this builds emotional trust. Visualize how this courage will help your child open up and face the world with resilience.


3. Encouragement (E)

Finally, we have encouragement. How often do we actively cheer our children on? Beyond academic or extracurricular success, it’s about encouraging effort and the small wins in life.

  • When your child struggles with math but tries again, say, “I love how you didn’t give up—keep going!”
  • When your child fails an exam, remind them, “This is just a stepping stone; let’s work on it together.”

Encouragement creates a growth mindset that allows children to believe in their abilities beyond external validation.

Example: Education and Encouragement

In many households, academic success is highly prioritized. But true success lies in nurturing the journey. Imagine telling your child, “I’m proud of the effort you’re putting in, no matter the result. You’ve already won by showing up!” 🙌 The courage to encourage effort over outcomes is the key to raising confident, happy children.


The Challenge: Bring ACE to Your Home Today

Here’s your challenge, as a parent: Bring ACE into your home for just one week. Consciously appreciate, show courage in difficult conversations, and encourage your child through small moments.

Ask yourself:

  • What can I appreciate about my child right now?
  • How can I create a safe space for them to talk about their fears and dreams?
  • What small efforts have they made today that deserve my encouragement?

How my changed?

When I first started using the ACE framework with my own family, I’ll admit, it felt awkward. As parents, we’re used to doing more than saying. But the results were incredible. My children confidence grew, my spouse and I connected on a deeper level, and our home became more harmonious. Just imagine what this shift could do for you. 🏡


Urgent Action Needed – Let’s Transform Together

The truth is, we have the power to shape our children’s future with these simple steps. The clock is ticking, and the time to act is now. Start today by embracing the ACE framework—Appreciation, Courage, and Encouragement.

Want to learn more? Let us connect to implement ACE in your home today! Let’s raise the next generation of confident, courageous, and compassionate leaders. đŸŒ±


💡 Tag a parent or share this post with someone who needs to hear this. Let’s empower families to thrive together! 🙌


#ParentingWithPurpose #ACEParenting #CourageToEncourage #PowerOfAppreciation #NurturingTheNextGeneration

Strengths Over Shortcomings: A New Approach to Parenting

Parenthood often feels like tending to a garden—our children grow in their own way, sometimes blossoming in directions we didn’t expect, and not always following the structure we try to provide. They seem to operate on their own wavelength, often not aligning with our thought process and guidance. And let’s not even talk about the things they don’t seem to do well! As parents, we experience so many life lessons that we want to pass on. We naturally wish for them to follow a path paved with happiness and success, and it can be tempting to focus on correcting their weaknesses. But is this always the right approach?

Rather than focusing on what is missing in our children, what if we shifted our attention to what they are good at? Instead of seeing their shortcomings, imagine focusing on their strengths and celebrating their natural talents. What if, instead of saying, “You didn’t do well in math,” we said, “I love how creative you are with your art projects” or “I admire how curious you are about the world around you”?

Acknowledging and appreciating their strengths not only builds confidence but also encourages them to pursue the things that make them feel good about themselves. We often mistake their lack of certain skills as a flaw, but could it be that we are overlooking the brilliance they already possess in other areas?

For instance, some children may struggle with keeping their rooms tidy, but perhaps they have an amazing ability to build, create, or imagine. Think of great minds like Einstein or Zuckerberg—both known for their disorganized workspaces. These messes didn’t hold them back from achieving greatness. By focusing on what’s ‘missing,’ we may unintentionally stifle the creativity and individuality that could lead to remarkable accomplishments.

It’s time we ask ourselves: Are our expectations shaped by our own desires, or are we truly seeing the unique abilities our children have? By appreciating their strengths, we can help them build confidence and resilience. This doesn’t mean we ignore areas where they can improve, but rather, we should create a balance where their self-worth is rooted in their strengths, and their weaknesses are seen as opportunities for growth, not failures.

Parenting is about finding that balance between guidance and freedom. When we shift our focus to appreciating their natural talents, we empower them to take pride in who they are. This approach builds confidence, a growth mindset, and allows them to flourish in ways we might never have imagined. Let’s embrace their individuality, nurture their strengths, and watch them grow into their best selves.

 

 

Significant Leaps to Appreciation

Over the years, growing up as a child, I carried a belief that you are appreciated and praised in life only when you are successful. Award is given only to winners. Tough competitions and struggles divided my mindset into only two categories- winners and looser. Praise and acknowledgement is served only to the best. The rest land nowhere. Either there is disappointment and loss or there is an applause and award. This ended up to create my fighter ideology.

Unless I performed well, I was never satisfied. Love was unconditionally offered but praise had to be earned not just with efforts and hard work but getting brilliant an outstanding results. Appreciation was conditional. If I do well, I have reward. And if I do bad, I get nothing. The same traditional concept raised me into a college achiever.

My parents endless efforts and sacrifices added to my guilt if I under achieved. But my journey and struggles somewhere remained unnoticed. I was never criticized, punished or ignored. But had to level up to a commendable benchmark which when not achieved restricted my appreciation or celebration. High hopes set on me to walk the achievers platform only brought disappointments and low self-esteem. My college course and professors somewhere brought back the spirit of determination and achievement as the course I studied offered self-exploration and I realized that I had a long way to go. For the first time, I got remarks in my files such as:-“painstaking efforts, praiseworthy thoughts, written with efforts and dedication” instead of just good, very good, excellent or just a signature. For the first time I felt somebody appreciated my hard work and efforts. It greatly motivated me back to become progressive and successful in pursuing my career.

To meet social expectations and fulfill personal needs of recognition, like many kids I put myself through stifle pressure and tireless efforts.

Usually, in the long run children who handle such situations end up killing their spark by giving up on their dreams or exhaust themselves to prove their capacity. Either of which is unhealthy. I chose to over work and devote my energies solely into this race.

Grades, marks were of great value and to get into the best of institutions, one had to crack competitive exam. But somewhere I found relief amidst all this pressure by focusing on doing what I enjoyed. But my basic zest of achievement that was ingrained so deeply returned back when I got a child of my own. I never negated or criticized her but internally had expectations from her too. Soon to realize that I do not want her to go through the same thing. I was open to the view due to my exposure and learnings that I have to be her support. She will take her own time to reach her full potential and I will not pressurize her for those outstanding results. I clapped at her every step when she learnt to walk, talk, play and do her tasks but slowly with time when academic pressure came, I forgot to appreciate that her improper circles also need appreciation.

 The fact that the little things that are not perfect also deserve appreciation. Only then they grow better. It’s a basic human need.

In life also, we must have gratitude for every little thing. Power of appreciation gives encouragement, positivity and new hope in times of pain, frustration and anger and allows the person to constantly stay motivated when one has a lost sense of direction.

“It is like a bridge to victory which we fail to acknowledge” or “a rechargeable battery that repowers you” when everything is grey and cloudy.

It shifts our focus to see the good instead of just focusing upon the missing puzzle pieces thereby working more effectively in developing positive behavior and habits. A very positive environment is created and the child cannot get a better space than this to grow. We tend to overlook its advantages in the long run under the belief that it may spoil the child but it truly helps to shape the personality of the child to become progressive, more positive, resilient, more unstoppable and open to new experiences in life. So as rightly said “there are things to say besides just good job” and “praise can transform a prison into a temple”.

-By Puneet Kaur

 

The Power of Appreciation: It needs Courage to Encourage Your Child

As parents, we strive to nurture our children, guiding them through life’s challenges. But one powerful tool often overlooked in parenting is appreciation. It’s more than just saying “good job” — it’s about recognizing their efforts, nurturing self-esteem, and helping them grow. What’s more, it takes real courage to consistently encourage our kids in a world that tends to focus more on correcting mistakes than celebrating effort.

“Children need models more than they need critics.” – Joseph Joubert

Parenting can be overwhelming, and between juggling work, house chores, and family demands, it’s easy to focus on what isn’t going well. However, shifting to a mindset of appreciation can transform the atmosphere in your home and foster stronger connections with your children.

Why Appreciation Matters

Children, just like adults, thrive on positive reinforcement. When they feel appreciated, they feel valued, which boosts their self-worth and encourages them to continue positive behaviors. They start to internalize the belief that they are capable and worthy — a crucial part of emotional development.

Fun Fact: When you express appreciation to your child, both of you experience a release of dopamine — the “feel-good” brain chemical. It’s an instant boost of positivity!

Encouragement Builds Courage

Appreciation is more than just praising your child when they succeed. It’s about recognizing their effort, especially when things don’t go perfectly. For instance, imagine your child spends hours on a project that doesn’t turn out right. Instead of focusing on the mistakes, say, “I’m proud of how much effort you put into this.” This small shift encourages a growth mindset — the belief that effort is what truly counts.

 “Children are apt to live up to what you believe of them.” – Lady Bird Johnson

When we appreciate our kids, we send a powerful message: we believe in them. This belief fosters their own self-confidence. Children who feel appreciated are more likely to take on challenges, knowing their effort will be acknowledged, even when the results aren’t perfect.

Small Acts of Appreciation Matter

It’s not just about recognizing the big milestones — appreciating small, everyday actions is key. Did your child help with chores without being asked? Thank them. Did they show kindness to a friend? Let them know you noticed.

These small moments teach children that their actions matter, that kindness and effort are valued, and that you see them even when life is busy.

Injecting Fun Into Appreciation

Appreciation doesn’t have to be serious all the time! You can make it fun, which might even make it more memorable for your child.

For instance, instead of saying, “Thanks for cleaning your room,” try something like, “Wow, did a magical cleaning fairy visit? Your room looks AMAZING!” Adding humor lightens the mood and reinforces the positive behavior in a playful way.

Similarly, if your child stayed patient during a long day of errands, you could say, “I think you just won the ‘Ultimate Patience Champion’ award!” This adds a lighthearted touch to your appreciation, turning it into a fun moment for both of you.

“The way we talk to our children becomes their inner voice.” – Peggy O’Mara

Encouraging a Growth Mindset

One of the greatest gifts you can give your child is the courage to keep trying, even when things are difficult. By appreciating their effort, rather than just their results, you help them develop a growth mindset — a belief that challenges help them grow rather than defining their limitations.

For example, when your child struggles with a task, avoid jumping in to fix it or pointing out the mistakes. Instead, you can say, “I can see you’re working hard. Keep going, you’ll figure it out.” This type of encouragement helps build resilience and perseverance, qualities that are essential for lifelong success.

How to Practice Daily Appreciation

Bringing more appreciation into your daily routine is simple with these steps:

  1. Be specific: Rather than general praise, be clear about what you’re appreciating. For example, “I noticed how focused you were while doing your homework today.”
  2. Catch them doing good: Notice the small positive behaviors, whether it’s helping around the house or being kind to a sibling, and comment on them.
  3. Appreciate effort, not just results: Whether they succeeded or struggled, appreciate the hard work they put in.
  4. Praise and correction at separate times: Don’t mix praise and correction in the same conversation. Let praise stand alone, and save any corrective feedback for another moment.
  5. Praise must be genuine and sincere: Children can sense when praise is forced or exaggerated. Be honest, and let them know that you truly mean what you say.
  6. Praise in public, correct in private: When your child does something commendable, acknowledge it in front of others. But when corrections are needed, keep them private to maintain their dignity.
  7. Accentuate the positive: Focus on what your child is doing right rather than constantly pointing out mistakes. Highlight their strengths and positive actions.
  8. Use humor: Add some fun! Playful comments or silly awards can make appreciation even more special.

 “A child who is appreciated will become an adult who appreciates.” – Unknown

Conclusion: The Ripple Effect of Appreciation

Taking the time to appreciate your child does more than just make them feel good for a moment. You’re teaching them to value themselves, to keep going when things get tough, and to appreciate the effort and kindness in others.

The courage to encourage is a gift that keeps on giving. As you practice appreciation, you’ll see your child’s confidence grow, their willingness to embrace challenges expand, and your relationship strengthen.

So, take a moment today to appreciate your child — for the big things, the small things, and everything in between. You’ll be amazed at the difference it makes in their life and yours.

Ms. Sonali Dutta

Parenting Coach

Contact: 76088 89728

Power of appreciation

The Power of Appreciation in Child Development:

 Six Principles to Nurture Growth.

 

Appreciation is a cornerstone of healthy child development. It shapes a child’s self-esteem, motivation, and social skills. When children feel valued and recognized, they are more likely to thrive in their learning and interactions. Here are six essential principles of appreciation that can enhance your approach to nurturing a child’s growth.

 

  • Be Specific When Praising

 

Vague praise like “Good job!” often falls flat. Instead, be specific about what you’re acknowledging. For instance, saying, “I loved how you shared your toys with your friend today!” not only highlights the positive behaviour but also reinforces the value of sharing. Specific praise helps children understand what they did well, encouraging them to repeat those behaviours.

 

  • Praise the Efforts/Progress, Not Only Results

 

Focusing solely on outcomes can create pressure and fear of failure. Instead, celebrate the effort and progress a child makes, regardless of the final result. For example, saying, “I’m so proud of how hard you worked on that puzzle!” emphasizes perseverance and resilience. This approach fosters a growth mindset, teaching children that effort is just as important as success.

 

  • Praise and Correction Should Be at Separate Times

 

Mixing praise with correction can confuse children and undermine the effectiveness of both. When you need to offer constructive feedback, do so separately from praise. For example, acknowledge their hard work first, then address areas for improvement later. This strategy allows children to fully absorb your appreciation without feeling overwhelmed by criticism.

 

 

 

  • Praise Must Be Genuine and Sincere

 

Children can sense insincerity, which can lead to distrust and diminish their motivation. Make sure your praise is heartfelt and authentic. If you struggle to find something to praise, take a moment to observe your child’s efforts closely. Genuine appreciation fosters a strong emotional connection and encourages children to take pride in their achievements.

 

  • Praise in Public – Correct in Private

 

Public acknowledgment can boost a child’s confidence and reinforce positive behaviour. When a child does something commendable, celebrate it openly—like praising their performance in front of family or friends. However, keep corrections private to maintain their dignity and self-esteem. This balance helps children feel valued while also supporting their growth.

 

  • Accentuate the Positive

 

In every situation, there are opportunities to focus on the positives. By highlighting what children do well, you create an environment where they feel safe to explore and take risks. Instead of saying, “You missed a few questions on that test,” you could say, “You did really well on the questions you understood!” This encourages a sense of accomplishment and motivates them to keep trying.

 

  • Conclusion

The power of appreciation in child development is profound. By applying these six principles, you can help nurture a child’s self-esteem, resilience, and overall well-being. Remember, appreciation is not just a response; it’s a vital part of parenting and teaching. By making appreciation a regular practice, you contribute to a positive and supportive environment where children can flourish.

 

Start today: how can you show appreciation to a child in your life?

Multiple Intelligence

The theory of multiple intelligences was developed in 1983 by Dr. Howard Gardner, professor of education at Harvard University. It suggests that the traditional notion of intelligence, based on I.Q. testing, is far too limited. Instead, Dr. Gardner proposes eight different intelligences to account for a broader range of human potential in children and adults. These intelligences are:

  • Linguistic intelligence (“word smart”)
  • Logical-mathematical intelligence (“number/reasoning smart”)
  • Spatial intelligence (“picture smart”)
  • Bodily-Kinesthetic intelligence (“body smart”)
  • Musical intelligence (“music smart”)
  • Interpersonal intelligence (“people smart”)
  • Intrapersonal intelligence (“self smart”)
  • Naturalist intelligence (“nature smart”)

Dr. Gardner says that our schools and culture focus most of their attention on linguistic and logical-mathematical intelligence. We esteem the highly articulate or logical people of our culture. However, Dr. Gardner says that we should also place equal attention on individuals who show gifts in the other intelligences: the artists, architects, musicians, naturalists, designers, dancers, therapists, entrepreneurs, and others who enrich the world in which we live.

Unfortunately, many children who have these gifts don’t receive much reinforcement for them in school. Many of these kids, in fact, end up being labeled “learning disabled,” “ADD (attention deficit disorder,” or simply underachievers, when their unique ways of thinking and learning aren’t addressed by a heavily linguistic or logical-mathematical classroom.

 

The theory of multiple intelligences proposes a major transformation in the way our schools are run. It suggests that teachers be trained to present their lessons in a wide variety of ways using music, cooperative learning, art activities, role play, multimedia, field trips, inner reflection, and much more. The good news is that the theory of multiple intelligences has grabbed the attention of many educators around the country, and hundreds of schools are currently using its philosophy to redesign the way it educates children. The bad news is that there are thousands of schools still out there that teach in the same old dull way, through dry lectures, and boring worksheets and textbooks. The challenge is to get this information out to many more teachers, school administrators, and others who work with child

The Best Teachers Are Our Children: 6 Lessons We Can Learn from Them

As parents, we strive to guide and teach our children, but often the most profound lessons come from them. Children, with their natural curiosity and open hearts, offer us life lessons that are easy to overlook. Here’s how you can embrace these valuable teachings and incorporate them into your parenting journey.

1. Embrace Curiosity
Lesson: Children are innately curious, always asking questions and exploring their surroundings.

Advice: Nurture this curiosity by creating an environment where questions and exploration are encouraged. It fosters a love for learning and builds critical thinking skills. Join your child in discovering new things try a science experiment, visit a museum, or go on a nature walk. Ask your child to think of questions along the way, and let them lead the conversation. You’ll both learn something new!

Game Idea: Create a “Question of the Day” jar where you and your child can drop in interesting questions to explore together.

2. Live in the Moment
Lesson: Kids can live fully in the present, deeply engaging in whatever they’re doing.

Advice: Practice mindfulness with your child. Simple activities like drawing, playing a game, or walking in nature are great ways to focus on the present. This helps reduce stress for you and your child while teaching the value of fully engaging in the moment.

Trick: Try a “Mindful Moment” challenge set a timer for five minutes, and during that time, both of you focus on one activity, noticing every detail. Afterwards, talk about how it made you feel to focus on one thing together.

3. Express Emotions Freely


Lesson: Children express their emotions openly, whether they’re happy, sad, or frustrated.
Advice: Create a safe space for your child to express their emotions without judgment. This builds emotional intelligence and helps them develop healthy ways to manage feelings. Share your own emotions too showing that it’s okay to feel vulnerable can foster deeper connections.

Game Idea: Use “Emotion Flashcards” to help your child identify and express what they’re feeling. You can even turn it into a fun role-play game where both of you act out different emotions!

4. Be Fearless


Lesson: Children approach new experiences with excitement and fearlessness.

Advice: Encourage your child to try new things, even if they fail. Focus on the effort rather than the outcome, and celebrate their willingness to take risks. This helps build confidence and a growth mindset. As a parent, step out of your own comfort zone by trying something new together whether it’s learning a new skill or visiting a place you’ve never been.

Trick: Create a “Courage Jar.” Every time your child (or you!) tries something new or challenging, write it on a slip of paper and place it in the jar. Review your courage moments together at the end of the month!

5. Find Joy in Simple Things


Lesson: Kids can find joy in the simplest things a puddle, a leaf, or a cardboard box becomes a source of happiness.

Advice: Slow down and enjoy life’s simple pleasures with your child. Engage in small, joyful activities like playing at the park, reading stories, or baking together. These moments create lasting memories and teach children that happiness can be found in everyday experiences.

Game Idea: Try a “Joy Hunt” around the house or in the neighborhood both of you take turns finding and sharing things that make you smile. It could be a colorful flower, a soft blanket, or even a silly face!

6. Show Unconditional Love


Lesson: Children love unconditionally and seek the same from their parents.

Advice: Show your child that your love is constant, no matter their behavior or achievements. Spend quality time with them, listen to their stories, and be fully present in your interactions. This builds trust and a strong foundation for your relationship.

Trick: Play the “Gratitude Game” before bedtime each of you shares three things you love or appreciate about the other. This reinforces your bond and helps your child understand the depth of your unconditional love.

By embracing these lessons from children, we can become better parents and individuals. Let’s learn from our little ones and create a nurturing environment where both parents and children can thrive.

Raising Compassionate Children

Parenting is not just about ensuring children’s cognitive growth but also about nurturing their emotional and social well-being.  Quality time means engaging in meaningful conversations, connecting, and being emotionally available.
If parents are constantly distracted by phones or busy schedules, they miss valuable opportunities to meet their children’s social needs and understand their emotions.

Many parents focus heavily on academic success, aiming for good grades and prestigious schools, believing this will secure their child’s future. However, by neglecting emotional and social development, children may grow up disconnected, materialistic, and lacking empathy.
Without nurturing these qualities, they may become more focused on personal gain than on contributing to society through acts of kindness and charity. A balanced approach to parenting, where both cognitive growth and emotional nurturing are prioritized, is essential for raising compassionate, well-rounded individuals.

#SmartParenting #HappyParenting
Blog by Sayed Israr
Parent Coach

Why Emotional Growth Matters

Parenting is not just about ensuring children’s cognitive growth but also about nurturing their emotional and social well-being.  Quality time means engaging in meaningful conversations, connecting, and being emotionally available.
If parents are constantly distracted by phones or having busy schedules, they miss valuable opportunities to meet their children’s social needs and understand their emotions.

Many parents focus heavily on academic success, aiming for good grades and prestigious schools, believing this will secure their child’s future. However, by neglecting emotional and social development, children may grow up disconnected, materialistic, and lacking empathy.
Without nurturing these qualities, they may become more focused on personal gain than on contributing to society through acts of kindness and charity. A balanced approach to parenting, where both cognitive growth and emotional nurturing are prioritized, is essential for raising compassionate, well-rounded individuals.

#SmartParenting #HappyParenting
Blog by Sayed Israr
Parent Coach