Positive Psychology approach to raising children
Positive Psychology offers several evidence-based strategies for raising children that promote their well-being and positive development. Some of these strategies include:
Fostering positive emotions: Encouraging positive emotions such as happiness, gratitude, and awe can help children build resilience, develop positive relationships, and cope with stress.
Developing strengths: Identifying and developing children's unique strengths, such as curiosity, creativity, and kindness, can boost their self-esteem and motivation.
Encouraging mindfulness: Teaching children mindfulness and meditation techniques can help them regulate their emotions, improve their attention, and reduce stress.
Nurturing positive relationships: Supporting children's social connections and helping them build positive relationships with family, friends, and others can improve their well-being and foster empathy and compassion.
Fostering a growth mindset: Encouraging children to view challenges as opportunities for growth and learning can help them develop a growth mindset, improve their resilience, and increase their motivation to learn and explore.
Positive psychology has the potential to impact all family members, from children and adolescents to adults, in terms of growth and wellbeing. As children are typically the most affected by family interactions and experiences, using aspects of positive psychology can be useful in building an enduring positive relationship between children and their parents.
Some examples of positive psychology that can be used by parents are:
Making the time to participate in activities together such as reading, sports, music, and crafts. This can improve the child’s self-esteem and confidence, and build on trust within the relationship
Sharing positive emotional experiences such as; seeing a movie or concert, going on walks or exploring a new location, learning a new skill together, or even just laughing at jokes
Talking about strengths of each family member. This can be helpful to draw on during stressful situations or crises, and assist in developing confidence in each other’s potential
Providing compassion during children’s struggles. This involves acknowledging their distress and encouraging a sense of kindness to themselves
By applying these strategies and behaviours, parents can help their children develop positive habits, attitudes, and beliefs that can contribute to their overall well-being and success.