Family Tips Archives Parents Can Take a Time-Out, Too Taking the "Hard" Work out of Homework

We now know that children are born with very different congenital characteristics. Some are naturally outgoing while others are reflective and have a very active inner life. Neither approach is right or wrong but merely a way of being.

If your child is a little hesitant to try something new, try reminding your child of past accomplishments. "It must feel a little scary to spend the night at your friend's house for the first time. Remember the first time you spent the night at grandma's house? You didn't want to leave home but you gained the courage and did it! You ended up having such a good time making that chocolate cake with grandma and in the end, you were glad you went. And what about the time you didn't want to ride the school bus? You figured out just where to sit to feel safe. I bet you can have a good time at the sleepover."

Parents often feel joy and pride when their children jump in and engage happily in a new activity. But there is something to be said for the child who watches, waits and listens before making her entrance. Many children who proceed slowly are perceptively observing the nuances of a situation. When they join in, they can frequently do it with competence and confidence. Readiness is important and when we give children a chance to get ready, we honor their style, who they are and that which makes them unique.