Parents are different. Democratic and authoritarian, hyper-caring and "lazy." But surely everyone is sure that children should be praised. But how about here not to praise? And then it is conceited, relaxed ... This question was asked by real experts, scientists from the University de Montfort in the UK. The specialists undertook a serious study that involved 38 families with children from two to four years. Parents were asked to fill out questionnaires, where they answered questions about the behavior and well-being of their children. It turned out that moms and dads who praise their children for good behavior five times a day, are growing happy children. They are much less likely to experience symptoms of hyperactivity and decreased attention. Moreover, the scientists noted that "lauded" children are more stable emotionally and much easier to contact with others. Socialization of them is simply a hoot!
Photo: GettyImagesThen the scientists went further.They made a schedule for parents on when and how to praise their child. Moms and dads had to tell their child what a great boy he was, and then record changes in his behavior and relationships with relatives and peers. After four weeks, all parents without exception noted that the child had become calmer, his behavior had changed for the better, and in general the child seemed happier than before. Does this mean that severity is harmful to children? At least, excessive severity is definitely harmful. “The child behaves better and feels better because his positive actions are rewarded with praise,” says Sue Westwood, a senior lecturer at De Montfort University. So what do we have? Tactile contact is essential for children to be happy – this has long been proven. But emotional “stroking,” it turns out, is no less important. Moreover, the researchers stipulate that five times is a convention, taken practically out of thin air, from the recommendation to eat five servings of vegetables and fruits a day. “You can praise more often or less often. But children should hear warm words regularly for several weeks or months, and not just for a day or two, says Carol Sutton, one of the researchers. However, every woman knows that regularity is important in any business. - We notice a child much more often when he screams than when he quietly reads a book. Therefore, it is important to "catch" these moments, praise the baby for good behavior in order to model it in the future. You can praise for daily achievements: for helping younger children, learning to ride a bike or walking the dog, advises Sutton. But you shouldn't rain down a barrage of praise for every sneeze either. It is important to maintain some balance. And by the way, about fruits. You can even praise the child for finally eating broccoli. Perhaps then he will even love it.
