Strong Willed Children vs Strong Willed Parent
Ya, that’s me. I realized it a long time ago and I am still shocked when I’m in the middle of one big power struggle.
I want to share a few tips I have learned along the way.
Tip number 1 -
No one likes to be told what to do - adults and children alike.
Strong-willed kids are experimental learners.
Isn’t that interesting, I think because… well, I am a painter, a clay maker, a bare foot in the sand girl. I am a kinesthetic learner. I love hands-on projects. I love to experiment! Hmmm.
Thinning about this, I have a child who is exactly like this!
These kids want to jump in the puddle to find out they get wet - so LET THEM! Have a bag of clean clothes and socks tucked away in the van at all times with these kids. Be prepared and give them license to be themselves.
Let them learn through experience instead of trying to control them. Don’t use your relationship to influence their decisions. Use your love and patience ot watch them learn on their own and be there with the hug, the towel or the understanding ear after it all goes down.
Some examples:
-”I know it’s cold, and you don’t want to wear a coat. I am going to wear my coat, how about we just put it in the car for a ‘just in case.?’
-I’ll bring an extra set of clothes, socks and boots, cause I have a feeling we may want to test the nature around us.”
-”Do you want to leave now or in 10 minutes without complaining?” Make a deal, let them decide, give choices and validate big feelings while sticking to the deal.
If you have ideas, please feel free to share more.
Until next time…
Stay Wild, Stay You!
