Understanding the uniqueness of your child

Every child is unique. Even identical twins are separate individuals. It is said that the chance of having identical fingerprints with someone is 1 in 64 trillion. In fact, every individual has a unique print on each finger.
One of the greatest mistakes you can make as a parent is to compare your child to a sibling or to another child. There is no basis for comparison.
Every child has talents, skills and temperaments, character traits and strengths, preferences that allow him to express his or her individuality.
While one child may value solitude, another is boisterous and always craves excitement
As a parent, you must acknowledge that each child is unique. You must study and observe your child well enough to be able to make those discoveries. This cannot be achieved in one day but can be done with a lot of practice and patience. One easy way you can do this is by observing your child at play and under different circumstances.
The importance of play for children cannot be overemphasized. Apart from playing with their friends, parents should play with their children. Play is the child’s work but for you as an adult, it helps you to relax your mind. This reduces your stress level and promotes both mental and physical health.
Have conversations with your child about their daily experiences whether at home or in school. Some children talk more than others do. Do not shout them down or tell them to shut up. For a child that does not talk too much, you may help by asking questions here and there that will encourage them to say what is on their mind. This helps create a bond between you and your child.
Find out your child’s interest and encourage him or her. Do not force your dreams and interests on your child. A child that appears laid-back or lazy might turn out to be the one that is detailed and patient.
Your child is the original version of himself. As a parent, you need to mirror this to your child. Are you happy with whom you are or you are constantly trying to be like the Joneses? Let your child know you value and celebrate their uniqueness. Do not allow anyone, – teacher, friends, family berate or compare your children. You must become your child’s greatest cheerleader.
When you approve your child’s uniqueness, it helps the child to approve himself. This does a lot for your child’s self-esteem. Your child feels loved and wanted and does not have to seek affirmation in the wrong places and from the wrong people. It also helps your child develop in his own way and at his own pace.
You might have to adjust your parenting strategies to suit the uniqueness of each child. You need to understand that what works for child A will not necessarily work for child B.
We have all been created unique by God and we all can add value to our families and the entire world.

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