It's not firm control but the love, understanding and trust of parents that stops a child from going astray.
Peer group has the most profound influence on a child's life. His opinions, beliefs and attitude are shaped according to his friends. Under their pressure, he may lose the power to think independently and tend to go astray. As parents, give your child the strength of mind so that he lives life in his own right and not according to his friends.
Be a friend to your child: The first step is to maintain trust and open communication with the child so that he can talk to you everything and anything without any fear. This way you would know the good and the bad influences in your child's life. Also be flexible with him.
Guide him constantly: In growing age, children under peer pressure may think wearing certain clothes, taking risks, breaking rules is the way to command respect from people. Share experiences from your and life of others with your child so that he understands what it takes to become great.
Don't control your child: One of the most important kind of peer pressure is being teased for being 'mama's or papa's boy'. Don't issue instructions, act over protective or tell your child not to do something because he is incapable of it.Let him feel that he is in control of his life and just seeking your guidance.
Boost his self-esteem: Be a source of encouragement for your child where you keep appreciating and identifying your child's qualities. Express your faith in him rather than doubt his every move. This way he'll not depend solely on his friends for love and acceptance.
Give him decision-making power: Infuse so much of self-confidence in your child that others do not influence him. Let him decide what is wrong and what is right for him. Guide but never impose your decisions and allow your child to learn from his mistakes.
For your parenting related queries, write to the renowned parenting expert Sudha Gupta at
sudhagupta@mothersprideonline.com Selected questions will win 'Celebrate Childhood' by Sudha Gupta. HAPPY PARENTING Click below for more articles
http://www.presidiumonline.com http://www.mothersprideonline.com