Positive Thinking Changes Behaviour
Part One:
Try this at home
Think about what you are proud about in your child’s life. Think about everyday behaviours that make you proud, it might be just little things. Is it telling you how he managed to score at his favourite computer game? is it offering grandma a flower from the garden? is it spending time playing with legos in her room? is it telling mum a good joke? spending time alone relaxing?
Now think: What abilities and skills does one need to have in order to display these behaviours? Think positive. Think why you appreciate this kind of behaviour.
For example: Talking about a computer game shows…. my son knows how to talk and share things about himself.
Offering a flower shows….. my daughter is thoughtful and kind.
Telling a good joke means….. he’s got a sense of humour.
Think of attributes such as “imaginative”, “resourceful”, “self-contented”, “calm”, “happy”, “bright”…
Talk about these attributes you have noticed in your child. Explain how these behaviours make you proud. And how these show how there are so many good things about her.
Then make a list. Choose 4 attributes and write them on a sheet of paper. For example, joyful, helpful, thoughtful, kind. Put the list somewhere you can see. The fridge door is a good place. Every time you notice any one of these attributes during the day, place a star beside that particular ability. Your child will watch her abilities grow.
This little task will have a great effect on children and will encourage positive behaviour!
Based on Readings from:
Elispeth Mc Adam, Consultant Child and Family Psychiatrist