Parents searching for strategies to help their child to become a more likeable individual will be encouraged by the lessons presented from Parent Educator and Author, Judy H. Wright. Self-esteem and the building of moals, values and good citizenship are often a by-product of Ms. Wright’s suggestions listed in this article. Encouraging your child to practice these appropriate social skills will most likely allow him or her to become a more “likeable” person.
How to Make Kids More Likeable?
New research shows that all likeable children behave in certain ways. These
skills are not in-born but can be taught by parents, teachers and other caring
adults. There is a language of likeability that some children cannot pick up by
osmosis, but must learn. Not only does fitting in and having friends feel good, it
has numerous other advantages including better grades, healthier bodies, less
stress, and more opportunities to learn social skills. Children who feel like they
have friends tend to stay in school longer, make wiser decisions, and are
generally happier.
Parents: Here are 7 secrets to assisting your child to be more likeable. Teach
and model them on a daily basis and you will find your social circle enlarging.
1. Look for opportunities to assist others. Studies show that helpfulness
correlates more strongly than any other attribute to being liked. Teach
them to be aware of other people’s needs and to offer people spontaneously,
before they ask for it.
2. Find something that makes you feel special. Encourage your child to
find an activity, hobby or interest that they really enjoy. They don’t have to
excel at it, just enjoy it. Do you enjoy drama, dance or railroads? Join a
group of enthusiasts.
3. Say “hello” first, and smile. People who smile are perceived as nice
and approachable. Friendly and optimistic people act as a magnet to
others. Have you ever gotten mad at someone who smiled or said hi to
you?
4. Don’t stand out from the crowd. Whether we like it or not, kids are
judged by the way they look. Try to help them fit in socially.
5. Don’t take it personally. Help your child understand that another person
may just be having a bad day and may not be mad or dislike him or her.
Teach them that people are really less concerned about us than we would
like to think.
6. Watch your body language. Verbal communication is the language of
information. Body language is the language of relationships. Appear
open, friendly and eager to join in and make friends. Stand up straight and
look people in the eye. Respect other people’s space by not standing too
close.
7. Recognize the difference between friendship and popularity.
Friendship is more important and will last a lifetime. Popularity is fleeting
and dependent on the group. You really only need one good friend.
Judy H. Wright is a Parent Educator, author and international speaker who is
blessed to live in beautiful Missoula, MT. You will find a full listing of parenting
and wellness books, workshops, teaching aids and FREE e-zine by going to:
www.ArtichokePress.com
