A mother’s heart warms at the spark of longing in her child’s eyes, but a twinge of discomfort follows.
“Mom, I’m not that envious of him! We can also go to the park and watch the birds soar in the sky!” The boy quickly reassures his mother, and in that moment, she feels like the luckiest mom in the world.
In reality, if we calmly reflect, there is no “upper limit” to the cost of raising a child. Wealthy and impoverished families differ financially, but love and care can provide a bountiful childhood for any child.
For ordinary families, parents can cultivate five “hobbies” for their children. These are the solid foundations for their development and keeping up with their peers.
Emotional Management
Research shows that today’s children tend to be more impulsive. Minor conflicts with friends can make them feel like the world is ending. These intense reactions are a sign of sensitivity and indicate limited emotional management skills.
With such fragile emotions, it becomes more challenging for children to face future failures and obstacles. This can lead to disappointment, low self-esteem, and even anxiety, impacting their psychological development.
Parents should guide their children in managing their emotions. For instance, when a child is sad or upset, refrain from lecturing or imposing theoretical lessons. Instead, give them a blank piece of paper and ask them to draw their current mood. They could draw dark clouds for sadness or a smiling face for happiness…
Allowing children to express their emotions through drawing also enhances their communication skills. It teaches them to convey their feelings without using words, which is crucial as many young children struggle to express themselves verbally.
Emotional Intelligence (EQ) plays a vital role here. When children can recognize and manage their emotions, they find it easier to understand and support their friends and family during difficult times.
Outdoor Sports
On beautiful weekends, organizing outdoor activities is a wonderful way for families to bond and enjoy the fresh air. For instance, a family bike ride to a nearby park can be a delightful experience. Pack some snacks, cycle to the park, and along the way, explore the scenery, chat, and create memorable moments.
Monthly mountain-climbing competitions can also be exciting and challenging. They promote physical health, encourage perseverance, and foster a sense of determination. These activities don’t have to be expensive; community spaces, parks, and hiking trails offer ideal settings for sports and positively impact physical and mental health.
Outdoor sports develop essential skills. Physical activities improve children’s health, enhance their motor skills, and develop their muscles, bones, and cardiovascular system. Running, jumping, climbing, and cycling create joyful moments and a healthy foundation for their future.
Communication Skills
According to psychologists, teaching children about manners in daily life is crucial. Small acts of kindness and respect towards others shape the necessary social skills for their future.
– When meeting acquaintances, children should smile and greet them.
– If someone helps them, remember to say thank you.
– If they accidentally bump into someone, they should apologize sincerely.
Teaching children about manners in daily life is essential.
Every little act in life is a lesson in etiquette and an opportunity for self-improvement. These are the rules of engagement and a chance for children to develop their social skills. When they encounter different social situations, such as meeting friends, participating in group activities, or attending events, they will apply what they’ve learned and gradually refine their skills.
With strong social skills, children will feel more confident in any situation. As they grow up, they will easily adapt to various environments, from school and workplaces to complex social scenarios. Excellent communication skills will pave the way for success in their careers and foster meaningful personal relationships.
Reading Habit
Reading requires perseverance and a long-term commitment to acquiring knowledge. It is a journey of discovering the world through stories, information, and wisdom found in books. Therefore, from kindergarten onwards, parents can consistently cultivate a reading habit in their children.
During leisure time, take your child to the library or bookstore. Let them breathe in the reading atmosphere and explore the myriad book genres. Allowing children to choose their favorite books to take home sparks their interest and fosters a sense of initiative in reading.
Reading demands perseverance and long-term commitment.
With consistent encouragement, children will develop a strong reading habit. Once they step into a bookstore, they’ll find it hard to leave and will eagerly return to discover new books. Each year, for their birthday, instead of asking for toys, suggest they request a book as a gift.
A child immersed in books will never lack vocabulary for essays or self-expression. Rich language and expression build confidence in communication and idea presentation.
Moreover, reading enhances focus and patience. In a world filled with technological distractions and instant information, the ability to concentrate on a story or topic for an extended period is invaluable. Books teach children to listen, think, feel, and develop emotionally.
Love for Labor and Independence
In life, daily needs are met through labor. Especially for children in modern society, parents should instill a love for labor and independence. This not only teaches them the value of hard work but also equips them with essential life skills.
For example, mothers can introduce the concept of “helping with the dishes.” Encourage children to roll up their sleeves, lather up the soap, and experience the joy and pride of contributing to household chores. When children understand that even small tasks have meaning and contribute to family stability, their self-confidence grows.
At age seven, under parental guidance, children can try frying an egg. Though it may not look appetizing, the sense of accomplishment will fill their hearts with pride.
These moments of joy build profound human values and shape a child’s sense of love, bonding, and responsibility within the family.
True happiness is not defined by luxury or extravagant experiences alone. It can also be found in the simplest, most accessible moments.
A beautiful childhood isn’t just about riding in a car and watching the streets go by. Holding hands, lying on the grass, counting stars, and sharing laughter are equally precious memories.
These joyful moments shape a child’s sense of love, family bonding, and responsibility, creating a foundation for a fulfilling life.
