Children with too strong a character can assume a real challenge for parents and teachers. This is an energetic and stubborn personality type that can be difficult to handle in different situations. However, it is important to emphasize the fact that this characteristic does not have to be negative; In fact, when you know how to handle it, it can be channeled into constructive behaviors.
In the following article we are going to give you a series of guidelines or recommendations to follow to help you deal with a child with a strong character.
What is a child with a strong character like?
A child with a strong character usually gets angry by everyday everyday events, as is the case with food or when going to sleep. It is normal and common for a child with a strong character to have the following characteristics:
- A child with strong behavior usually continually challenges. This will mean ignoring the Parents and breaking the rules imposed within the family.
- He wants and needs to know the why of things. Otherwise you get angry and angry with the person who sets the activity to be carried out.
- Outbursts of anger They are one of the clearest characteristics of children with a strong temperament.
- It will also be characterized by having a little tolerance for frustration.
- A child with a strong character usually commands in a habitual way with respect to others. He usually expresses how things should be done both to other children and to adults.
- The lack of patience It is another of the clearest characteristics of a child with a strong temperament.
- By having a dominant yet defiant character, doesn't usually listen and does not follow the established rules.
- A child with strong behavior usually sets his or her own pace when it comes to his or her day-to-day activities. If something doesn't interest you in the least, goes at your own pace. While if you are interested in something it can speed up more than necessary.
What to do if a child has too strong a character
Accept your personality
The first piece of advice is none other than to accept the little one as he is, both with its virtues and its defects. Having a strong character does not have to be a negative thing, as it can be a clear sign of certain leadership.
Set a set of limits
Despite the character strong of your child, it is essential to set and establish a series of clear boundaries that help you have security and confidence in yourself. Don't be afraid to establish a series of norms and rules along with fair consequences. You must be firm when communicating these limits to your child.
Good communication
It is important to actively listen to your child and foster a good environment where they can express their thoughts and feelings freely and without fear of being judged and criticized. This will help you feel understood as well as reduce frustration that can lead to strong and challenging behaviors.
Focus on the child's behavior
When you are correcting your child, it is good to focus on the specific behavior instead of putting labels on his or her personality. For example, instead of saying "You are stubborn and stubborn," you should say "I don't like how you're behaving."
Offer limited options
If your child has a very strong character, it is advisable to give him limited options so that he feels who has some control over his life. For example, instead of asking, "What do you want to do today?" you could say, "Which would you rather go to the park or stay home playing?"
Teach to control emotions
Other guidelines to follow are to help the child identify and manage their emotions in a valid and appropriate way. You should give him different strategies so that he knows how to calm down when he feels angry, such as breathing deeply or counting to ten. Controlling emotions is key when it comes to ensuring that a strong character calms down as much as possible and does not escalate.
Reward positive behavior
Many parents make the big mistake of not congratulating their child when they do something well. They focus entirely on the bad and they totally forget the good. You need to recognize and praise your child's positive behavior. Rewards may include verbal praise, quality family time, or special privileges.
Parents should be a role model for their children.
Children learn by observing the conduct or behavior of their parents. This is why it is important for parents themselves to be role models. Adults should not lose their roles at any time and knowing how to manage different emotions in a calm and constructive manner.
Carry out activities that help channel energy
Children who have strong character They usually have a lot of energy. That is why it is advisable to encourage physical and creative activities that help channel the child's energy in a positive way, such as sports.
Help from a professional
In some cases, the help of a good professional can be key when it comes to knowing how to manage the child's behavior. This way, a child therapist It can be of great help when controlling the child's behavior or temperament.
In short, dealing with a strong-willed child can be a real challenge for parents, but with patience and following appropriate strategies, The child can develop skills regarding the management of positive emotions and behaviors. Remember that each child is different, so it is important to adapt these strategies to the individual needs of each child, in addition to maintaining open but respectful communication.