Early Childhood

» Grandma07 - Building Self-Confidence

What routines do you use in your home to promote a feeling of security and independence in your children?

-- posted by Grandma07

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» misha7574 - Building Self-Confidence

In response to Building Self-Confidence posted by Grandma07:

I have a 4 y/o daughter that we share with my ex-husband, a 4 y/o step-son that we share with my husband's ex-wife and an 8 month old daughter. We recently moved out of state (my husband is military) and we are in the middle of him being gone for 4 weeks except on the weekends and a day or two during the week. There have been alot of changes for all three kids during the last month and a half. To try to build their confidence, we keep them secure by sticking with a routine. We also have a calendar with pictures drawn relating to when they will see their other parents (or my husband) again and we mark off a day every night before they go to bed. That way they get a feel for how long it will be and they are always reminded that they WILL be with their other parents again.

Today, we went to the grocery store and a stranger remarked on how well behaved they were. I made sure I told them what she said to me and how proud I am of them for behaving. I let them know every day that I am proud of them, and I ALWAYS tell them why. I make sure it is a real reason that applies to them as individuals, and not some trumped up praise. They're smart! They would know if I was giving them a load of B.S.

-- posted by misha7574

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» Grandma07 - Building Self-Confidence

In response to Building Self-Confidence posted by misha7574:

What a wonderful idea! As military, the calendar works perfectly for deployments as well!
Another quick idea for illustrating the passage of time: If my husband was deployed over the Christmas holidays, we would make a chain of red and green construction paper strips and would take turns ripping one off each day. Children have problems knowing how long 5 weeks or 2 months are, but they will more rapidly understand the visual you are providing for them - thanks for sharing!

-- posted by Grandma07

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