A child doesn't require a flawless maternal figure to thrive effectively.
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校 Gebiet, sitting down with child psychologist Oksana Ivanovna Sibirko, we often discuss Children's Day, where we focus on children's rights, safety, and health. But, we seldom delve into the heart of the matter: the inner world of kids, that unseen realm that shapes their character for life.
The one thing every parent should provide is a sense of safety. Not just physical safety, but emotional security too. For a child to feel loved, accepted, and not betrayed.
"Neglecting this need can lead to various issues – from anxiety disorders to suicidal thoughts," warns Oksana Ivanovna.
When a kid throws a tantrum, some folks might think it's just a phase. But what if these tantrums are masking underlying anxiety?
The psychologist urges, "If something in your child's behavior upsets you, don't ignore it. Venture to a specialist rather than ignoring it and potentially missing the start of a serious problem."
Aggression and withdrawal aren't just personality quirks. They often signal internal struggles a child can't handle alone.
Many parents shrug off aggressive behavior as a phase or see it as mischief-making. But, internal conflicts often underlie these behaviors. As Oksana Sibirko explains, "This isn't just a phase. It's a cry for help."
The digital world is part of today's reality for children. Social media, tablets, and endless videos can affect a child's attention span, sleep patterns, and overall mood. Banning technology isn't the solution though; communication, attention, and genuine emotions are – according to Oksana Ivanovna.
"Quality over quantity" is the key when it comes to a child's needs. A child doesn't need our constant presence, but they can feel the difference when we're genuinely there. One hour of meaningful attention can be worth more than a day spent together on screens.
Many parents make mistakes – out of love – such as overprotection, yelling "for discipline," or manipulating their kids with "you're hurting me." But these actions can lead to guilt, low self-esteem, and distance.
"Love isn't control. Love is respect and support," Oksana Sibirko advises.
Should we parent boys and girls differently?
"Both genders need love, listening, and respect. But instilling responsibility and the ability to keep one's word in boys from a young age, through the personal example of parents, is crucial," replies Oksana Ivanovna.
The phrase "I was your age too" might seem helpful, but it doesn't connect with a child. It negates their individuality.
"Comparisons to yourself in the past have no place in understanding or motivating a child. They are unique individuals with the right to be themselves," explains Oksana Ivanovna.
For parents who grew up without love and warmth, approaching their own children can be challenging. How to ensure they don't pass on the trauma?
"Read Petranovskaya," suggests the psychotherapist.
Finally, if Oksana Ivanovna could give one message to all parents, it would be simple and encompassing:
"Appreciate, love, and respect your children."
This lays the foundation for everything else that follows.
- Emotional safety, a crucial aspect of family health, is vital for children's mental health, as neglecting this need can lead to anxiety disorders and suicidal thoughts, as warned by child psychologist Oksana Ivanovna Sibirko.
- Aggressive behavior in children is not merely a personality quirk, but often signals internal struggles they cannot handle alone, according to Oksana Sibirko. Parents should recognize these behaviors as a cry for help rather than dismissing them as a phase.
- In the digital age, while technology has become a part of children's reality, it's essential for parents to prioritize quality over quantity in their interactions with their children, focusing on communication, attention, and genuine emotions, as emphasized by Oksana Ivanovna.
