How to be fair with your children

A lot of children are under the impression that their parents have a ‘golden’ child. This can make them feel unloved and insecure with themselves.

Although you may be tempted to praise one child for good behavior, a child who doesn’t practice the same behaviors still needs to know that you love them.

If you want to treat your children fairly and help them become happy and well-adjusted individuals, then it’s quite likely that you will find these tips useful.

Communicate

If your younger children complain about not having the same privileges as older siblings, then speak to them about it. Explain they will also get those privileges when they reach a certain age. Comfort your younger ones and reassure them that in due time they will get to do the same things as their older siblings.

Spend one-on-one time

One-on-one time with each sibling will make them feel loved and secured. Since different children have different needs, make sure you find the right balance for face-time with each sibling. For instance, a young child with special needs may require more attention than an older teen. Discuss how you and your partner can give each child some one-on-one time.

Don’t compare strengths

Don’t expect all your children to engage in the same activities. Let them choose what they like and praise them when they do well. If you compare one child to a sibling who often does well, they will feel like you don’t value their strengths. Also, avoid judging your children and help them focus on individual strengths.

Give each child the opportunity to explain themselves

After an argument, make sure you get every side of the story. You may be tempted to listen to the eldest child over the others, but this is no way of resolving the issue. Let each child speak and make sure nobody interrupts.