Turn jealousy into ambition
Parents can redirect a child’s jealousy towards a positive channel to reduce the child’s negative feelings. For example, if a child is sad because their grade is lower than their friends’, parents can encourage and support the child to study harder. This way, the child will achieve better results in the next test.
When immersed in studying, the child will no longer think about how to surpass others but will focus on their own path.
Listen
Jealousy and resentment often stem from deep inside. The child may have a specific problem or concern behind their behavior. Therefore, parents need to talk to the child to understand why they display negative attitudes towards a specific person or feel dissatisfied with a certain situation.
Next is to listen to the child. The child may have low self-esteem and confidence, may not be sure about their positive aspects, and therefore, express jealousy towards others.
Read classic works
Some classic works contain moral messages. Even without emphasizing, parents can teach their children through these works during important stages of development.
Parents should make reading books before bedtime a daily habit for children. Giving children books about morals and good qualities will help them understand that jealousy is not the right thing.
Explain with examples
Parents should serve as role models. For example, praising others for their sense of humor, good behavior, or any other qualities they have. The important thing is that parents should feel comfortable praising others in front of the child.
Teach the importance of sharing
Some children tend to have unfounded negative feelings towards other children. Parents should teach children the importance of sharing and caring. This will help the child eliminate all anxieties. Sooner or later, parents will see their children enjoy being with a child they used to be jealous of.
Love your child
According to experts, children need all the love and affection in this stage of life. Whatever the reason, the guidance of parents along with love and care can always overcome and lead the child in the right direction faster.
Parents should not compare their children with others as it devalues the child. Comparisons only arouse resentment in the child.
Nurture each child’s unique strengths
Children love to hear their parents talk about their strengths. This will nurture the child’s self-esteem. It is best for parents to cultivate a unique strength for each child based on their interests and temperament.
For example, in a family with two siblings, parents can ask both children to admire each other. This method helps the child understand what their own strengths are.
Reinforce cooperative behavior
This is a simple way to eliminate jealousy in children. In this case, parents will “mold” the child to support each other. Give the child moments to share, help, and work together. And parents will appreciate the child’s efforts. The child will repeat this behavior when they realize that their parents want them to do so.