Mommy Moments
Influential People
By Melanie Lewis
When it’s not “mommy-time” your kids are with their potentially most influential people. I went to a talk given by leading child Psychologist who’s expertise informs us that a charismatic adult is important to manage your child’s life’s challenges. Dr. Robert Brooks is a prolific writer on the topic of handling adversity. The key to this question asked to people who have faced problems and adversity and have excelled despite the problems. The person who always believes in me and always stands by me. A person interacting with your child is a place where children gather strength.
Child care, teachers, coaches have all been highly influential for me, so it goes for our children. These wonderful, talented people become the fabric of the care network we create for our kids. I’m extremely grateful for the depth of care and ability to bring out the strengths and competencies of our children. Auntie Eileen brought this out of my son as a babysitter. She had a fun game to have him pick up a toy and bring it to her. in doing so her felt so proud to bring the toy. Unknowingly she was teaching him vocabulary and building his confidence.
My son’s preschool teacher modeled excellent problem-solving skills. The teachers charmed my sons into studious sponges. Everything they did was exciting and enchanting. How did they get the kids so engaged? They let the kids take the lead deciding interests, exploring and discovery. Then they encouraged, congratulated and praised them.
Likewise, soccer coaches have to balance skills frustration with competitive drive. The best coaches provide encouragement and skill development while reducing pressure to win. They will allow the kids to experience defeat and give them the skills to accept it and move beyond.
Of course, parents can have a tremendous impact if we continue to look for the positive behavior and cull strengths. Continue to teach by example and be at the ready to heap on praise even to the most difficult times. My New Year’s resolution is to find something positive every day to show my kids I’m there for them.
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