Candy, TV Shows, Toys and even what to wear, there are a lot of things a child CAN make choices on. Oftentimes, we do the choosing for our children and sometimes we just give in to what they want the first time… not always the best option.
Kids will not be able to do well in decision making unless we help them to begin thinking for themselves with small decisions from an early age.
Children who are well-verse in aspects of decision-making early on, grow up to become smart and responsible adults with an increased sense of cause and effect. Since they know how to properly choose for themselves and stick to their decision, they are able to think more critically in all of life’s decisions.
Though kids will only have to decide on things such as; toys, games and food, it all starts small. Below are some ways on how you can help them in decision making:
- Reduce their options for them. You may not decide for them but you can make it easier at the start. Help them decide better by limiting their options to where they can comfortably choose. Sometimes, too many options will only confuse them, adding a sense of pressure.
- Let them make decision even if you think they will choose incorrectly. What your kids need to learn is to know that they can make mistakes sometimes. There is no perfect circumstance thus they do not need to be perfect all the time. The mistakes they do sometimes make can help them become stronger and more self-reliant as they mature.
- Be an example for them. Kids will always try to follow what adults do. Live the kind of life that you want your kids to have. If you want them to be wise in making decisions, set an example for them.
- Help them get a clear picture. Children do not have enough experience to identify which is a good decision or situation and which is not. Help them decide better by creating a clear picture for them of what will happen if they choose this and that. This will help to further teach your children the concept of cause and effect.
- Support their decision. Show kindness and support to your children and they will feel more confident. If they choose a decision, support their decision, even if it isn’t exactly what you would have chosen for them. Let them know that you are there always no matter what.
- Let them know that you trust them. Give your kids the assurance that you trust them in making a good decision. This will encourage them to not only feel confident in their decisions, but also to make the right decisions.
