Dream Weavers: Getting Involved In Making Sure You're Child Is Involved In Healthy Activities

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By Mia Bolaris-Forget

Many teens are often too insecure to develop any compelling interests or “passions” of their own. Many feel they are not smart, pretty/handsome or interesting enough to have any significant and defining interests. In fact, they often attempt to embrace the passions of others only to allow it to ultimately flicker out when confronted with the next trend or fad.

Adolescents with this dynamic need more attention, emotional support and encouragement than others to properly develop their personalities, self-esteem, and essential life skills for adulthood.

Be alert for any glimmer of interest. If your child comments on something he/she sees on TV, or if there is a particular character or activity they seem to slightly “identify” or “positively” mention, take total advantage of the opportunity. Consider buying your child a book on the topic, or introducing him/her to someone who does that for either a hobby or a living. Also consider taking them to see a friend or family member “in action”. Maybe even develop an interest in the particular field or activity, of your own.

For instance, if your youngster thinks its “cool” that his/her favorite (TV) character is a police officer, indulge the interest with a book about a successful role model in that position, take your child down to the local station for a “tour of duty” or introduce him/her to someone you know (and trust) in that field.

Remember, most hesitancy in teens is a direct result of lack of confidence (especially about themselves and their ability to accomplish something). Confidence however, comes from success and rising above “failure” and “defeat”. Your child will never realize this sense of achievement or change his/her thinking pattern if he/she never goes out there and tries. Make sure you insist on helping your child strengthen his/her personal perception. A positive outlook will only spill over in other areas of their life. And remember… success is truly 5% natural talent and 95% work. Remind your teen to find something he/she is truly interested in, accept that they won’t “succeed” every time, but encourage him/her to keep at it and give it his/her all. After all, there’s no failing, only learning.

Long Island Family Life & Parenting Articles > Dream Weavers: Getting Involved In Making Sure You're Child Is Involved In Healthy Activities