Emotional Development

Don’t underestimate how sensitive your child is to the emotional atmosphere in your family. As adults we need to be very careful with what we say and do. Our interactions with our children are engraved in their memories forever!

Your child gains or loses self-esteem based on how she feels others think of her. When you include your child in your family life, and show respect for her interests, you show her that she is loved and valued. Explain your expectations for good behavior. Say nice things to her when you “catch” her doing it right rather than always working to correct bad behavior. Through your words and actions, show your child that you may not always like what she does, but she is loved just the same.

Tell your child that you love her every day—no matter what!