The warmth of a family atmosphere, support and care - a child usually finds all this in communication with older generations.
However, not all phrases spoken by adults contribute to the development of positive emotions and feelings in children.
Research and experience show how conversations with elders can influence the development of a child's personality.
Let's discuss examples of phrases that can be destructive for a child and ask ourselves the question: "How can we create a caring environment for a child without harming his emotional state?"
Phrases that criticize a child
When older people repeatedly point out a child's shortcomings or criticize his or her behavior, the child may feel vulnerable and helpless.
The negative impact of repeated phrases like "you're moving too slowly" or "you have to be better to impress me" can lead to lower self-esteem and a worsened mood in a child.
Phrases that are disparaging towards a child
Sometimes adults express their disapproval by using hackneyed stereotypes.
Phrases like, “That was a toy for boys, not girls,” or “Only weak men cry” can encourage a child to reject the traditions and ideas he observes in the family and has no control over.
Phrases that highlight weaknesses
Words that focus on a child's shortcomings can also negatively impact his emotional state.
Derogatory statements such as, "Your handwriting is terrible," "How can you screw up so much?" or "You're so clumsy, understand your body" can further bring out insecurities and fears, and make a child feel inadequate or incapable.
Phrases that support stereotypes
Some words can instill long-term stereotypes and prejudices in a child. For example, phrases like "Girls should play with dolls and boys with cars" or "It's better to go to art classes than to play sports."
Of course, adults can unwittingly harm a child by doing this, since children can easily accept these stereotypes and pass them on accordingly.
Phrases that criticize a child's parents
Criticism from elders can be a source of conflict between children and their parents.
In the eyes of older generations, children act incorrectly or do not have the proper skills to cope with everyday tasks.
If elders scold parents for the way they raise their children, this can lead to disagreements and misunderstandings in the family.
How to Replace Negative Phrases with Positive Ones
1. Instead of criticism, support and encouragement. Replace "You're moving too slowly" with "Well, next time you'll do it faster, I believe in you!"
2. Respect and understand differences. Instead of "This is a toy for boys, not for girls," say, "Choose what you like and enjoy it, because all children are unique in their own way."
3. Acknowledge shortcomings without judgment and encourage the desire to improve. Instead of "Your handwriting is terrible," try "It's clear that you have trouble writing neatly yet, but I'm sure with practice your handwriting will become excellent!"
4. Openness and readiness for new ideas and interests. Replace "Girls should play with dolls, and boys with cars" with "You can choose any toys and activities that interest you, because every child is an individual."
5. Explain the situation without criticizing the child's parents. Instead of scolding the way the parents are raising their children, try to explain what you think is wrong and offer your help: "I can see that you are having a hard time coping with this, please feel free to ask me for advice and support."
It should be borne in mind that communication with older generations plays an important role in the development of children, and its quality directly affects their personal and emotional well-being.
Habitual phrases that can carry a destructive meaning should be replaced with constructive and positive expressions.
By creating a nurturing and supportive environment for children, we not only ensure their emotional health, but also lay the foundations for long-term well-being and independence.
Earlier we told you that children under one year old should not eat egg whites .
