Teach your child how to focus on the positive!
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One of the greatest gifts a parent can bestow on their child is to teach him how to anticipate enjoyable things in life rather than expect disagreeable and unpleasant results.
Connect, for example, the return to school with your child’s favorite fall activities such as football games, apple picking, Halloween, etc…
It is vital to find a few moments everyday to give each of your children your undivided special attention. Treat yourself and your child to exclusive, one-on-one time together each day. Develop joint interests and pursue them passionately. If your child expresses an interest in an activity, eagerly embrace the chance to learn it and share the experience with your child.
It’s also critical for parents to make extra efforts to help their special needs child find what Dr. Robert Brooks refers to as islands of competence [2], or a child’s own unique talents, passions, and abilities. Help your child find his or her islands of competence through these channels:
· school electives
· after school activities sponsored by the school
· community based activities such as acting, singing, art, and music
· volunteer experiences, or mentoring younger children or seniors
· part time jobs in areas of interest
Talk with your child about his/her talents. Express confidence in their skills. Look beyond the traditional definitions of skill, talent and achievement to find the areas in which your child truly excels. Give them every opportunity to develop and admire these abilities. Teach your child to value everything they do well, and they will grow the seeds of self-confidence that guide them to tackle whatever life has to offer.
Stay focused on the positive aspects of your own life!
One of the most significant ways a parent can help their child defeat the tendency to anticipate unpleasant results is to stay focused on good things in your own life. Every time a negative thought crosses your mind, make a commitment to reorder it into a positive, better-feeling thought. This focus can be a powerful example for your child.
Have a Great School Year!
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Related: Back to School Tips for a Successful School Year Complete Guide [4]
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