Many mothers mistakenly believe—due to old social habits—that a young child does not feel or notice their behavior. In reality, children are intelligent and sensitive from a very early age, even during infancy. They are highly perceptive; for example, they can distinguish between similar foods with slight differences from an early stage.
Mothers should understand that some behaviors may seem simple and are often overlooked in favor of feeding and cleaning the child, yet they can leave a deep impact on the child’s personality. Educational consultant Dr. Tala Radwan highlighted seven important parenting behaviors that should not be neglected early on.
1. Neglecting to Hug Your Child
Hugging and showing physical affection from an early age helps correct negative behaviors more effectively than punishment. It strengthens the emotional bond between the child and the mother.
Children who feel emotionally neglected may develop harmful behaviors later, such as aggression toward others, damaging belongings, or even stealing. This often stems from feelings of jealousy—especially when a new sibling arrives—and a lack of emotional support.
2. Not Listening Carefully to Your Child
Always listen attentively to your child, no matter how simple or trivial their words may seem. Giving them your full attention builds their self-confidence and helps them develop communication skills.
When children feel heard, they are more likely to express themselves, grow into confident individuals, and actively engage with others instead of becoming withdrawn.
3. Not Teaching Your Child to Express Emotions
It is important to teach your child how to express their feelings from an early age. Talk to them about your own experiences and emotions in a way they can understand.
This encourages the child to open up, share their thoughts, and see you as a trusted friend, strengthening your relationship—especially as they grow older.
4. Not Playing with Your Child
Playing with your child should be a daily priority, just like feeding and hygiene. Both parents should participate.
Through play, children learn essential life skills such as sharing, teamwork, respect for rules, and cooperation. It also provides a safe space for them to express emotions like joy and frustration, helping them develop emotional balance and resilience.
5. Lack of Clear Boundaries
One of the biggest mistakes is failing to set consistent boundaries. Children need clear and stable rules.
If decisions change frequently, the child may become confused and start testing limits or behaving irresponsibly.
6. Not Building Self-Confidence Early
A child’s personality can weaken if their self-confidence is not nurtured early. Every child has talents and abilities, but many fail to develop them due to lack of support.
Encouraging your child to believe in their abilities helps them grow, explore, and succeed.
7. Not Being a Good Role Model
Parents must act as positive role models from the start. Children learn through imitation, not just instructions.
If a parent behaves negatively—such as lying, shouting, or being harsh—the child is likely to copy these behaviors. A boy often imitates his father, and a girl imitates her mother, especially in social interactions.
That is why it is important for both parents to model good behavior consistently, as correcting habits later becomes much more difficult.
Post a Comment