Do you know how your child feels about the beginning of Term 3? Well, if you don’t then you are not alone. Many parents are sailing in the same boat and may not really know the exact thought process of a child who is starting a new term.
But that doesn’t mean you cannot get them to open up.
To help your child ease some of the ‘new term anxiety’ as well as strengthen your bond, it’s best to learn how to encourage a child to express their feelings (to you).
To help parents who ready to send their children back to school, the Ministry of Education (MOE) has shared four helpful tips on how to encourage a child to express their feelings. These tips can help you connect with your children – anytime and anywhere.
As MOE explains, “Whether it’s over dinner, or before bedtime, take the chance to connect and have a chat. As you talk about the new school term ahead, you may also learn something new about your child.”
How To Encourage A Child To Express Their Feelings About The New Term: 4 Tips By MOE
1. Ask your child open-ended questions
Image source: Facebook / Ministry of Education, Singapore
If you’re having trouble starting a conversation with your child – especially with their passive ‘yes’ or ‘no’ responses – try asking them open-ended questions instead.
Directly asking your little one about their thoughts and emotions is one of the best ways to encourage a them to express their feelings.
2. Let them share their problems and solve them together
Image source: Facebook / Ministry of Education, Singapore
You may notice that constantly reminding your children of their tasks often forces them to put up walls. It prevents them from sharing because everything becomes one big chore for them– one that they have to complete somehow.
So, instead of telling them how to solve their problems, ask them for their opinion. Consult with them about the ways they would employ to resolve conflicts. At the same time, be open to their suggestions. This way you problem-solve together and become their friend and guide.
3. Pay attention to your child’s interests and hobbies
Image source: Facebook / Ministry of Education, Singapore
Keeping up to date with your child’s interests and upcoming activities can help strengthen your bond. Constantly checking in will also encourage your child to talk about their hobbies with you, as they know you’ll be open to listening and talking.
It is also a great way to motivate them on their newfound skills. Plus, it also helps them gain confidence to try out something they’ve been hesitant to do, knowing that they have your support.
And when they do succeed, you’ll be the first to hear about it!
4. Set an example for them
Image source: Facebook / Ministry of Education, Singapore
Conversations are a two-way street. Instead of just asking your child to open up about their feelings, share some of your personal experiences as well. Tell them what you have been struggling with and how you go about solving your problems.
This will encourage your child to open up to you and share their problems; whether they are related to school, their friends and/or anything else.
Remember that patience is key when learning about how to encourage a child to express their feelings. So do not force your child to talk if they don’t wish to, and also be on the lookout for the right time to approach them. Build a safe trust bubble so your child can share their thoughts and emotions with you openly.
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