Parents often try to motivate their kids by using phrases that can encourage them and help them move forward and upward in life. They always try to stay positive when their kids are around and wish the best for their children. However, there are certain things that may have harmful effects psychologically and should never tell your kids:
Do not tell them that you are on a diet
Parents must not share their weight issues with their kids. When they say things like they are on diet or they have to lose weight to get confident, kids take it in a wrong manner. They may think that one has to be thin to be confident in life. Some kids even start making excuses to eat anything as they feel that they may get fat like their parents. You can tell them that you eat light as that makes you feel good. Encourage them to exercise along with you.
Do not threaten your kids
Those parents who always threaten their kids fail to set a good example. When parents threaten their kids, they may learn the same behavior pattern, which may be problematic for them in future. There are chances that kids start using exactly the same method to fulfill their demands. Parents must make their kids aware of the consequences instead. Tell them that if they do not prepare for their test, they may get flunk in their exams. It is important that they know that you wish the best for them. Do not be authoritative with your kids as it may convey a wrong meaning.
Do not scare them about future
When nothing works parent make their kids understand that they may have to go through hardships in life. When parents tell their kids that the real world is full of troubles and problems of all kind, kids may get mixed messages. Parents must not forget the fact that even childhood has its own challenges. It is good to let kids get to know about all these things at a right time.
Do not set high standards
There is no doubt that each individual learns from mistakes but when parents set high standards of success, they put a burden on their kids. Kids feel the pressure to live up to the high expectations of their parents and may develop a poor self-image if they fail. Parents must encourage their kids but should never set the standards so high that kids get disappointed in themselves.
Do not let them know your financial worries
When kids wish to buy an expensive toy or a latest bicycle, most parents respond back with an answer that they cannot afford that. You may have financial troubles but you should never involve your kids in them as it may affect their thought process. They may even develop an inferiority complex as they see their friends having expensive toys with them. Instead, you should tell them that you are saving money for something else. You can also use this as an opportunity to explain the importance of saving for a rainy day.
Do not complain all the time
Parents must make sure that they set good examples for their kids. When kids find their parents come home complaining about everything, they develop a fear of growing up. They find it hard to understand why their parents are always tensed and worried but take it in an altogether different manner. They may feel that the world of adults is full of troubles only. You must spend quality time with them and share good experiences of your workplace with them. Forget all about your worries the moment you enter in your house and feel happy to see them smiling at you.
You must watch your words and actions when kids are around. Try to know your kids, watch their favorite cartoon series with them, go for a walk, sing together and help them have an overall developed personality.
