Did you know you can build trust with your child from a young age? As a parent we are constantly worried about how to correctly get our points across to your kids without jeopardizing their self-esteem.
The first few years of a child’s life are referred to as the fundamental years because this is the prime learning time. During this time, a sense of trust and security is crucial in order to build your child’s self-esteem and confidence.
How do I build trust with my child?
- Be sure to listen: listening is hearing with an intention of understanding. Truly make your child feel understood by listening to them and what they are trying to convey! Though it is hard to do that with toddlers especially- an easy hack is to repeat back what they’ve said to you in paraphrase!
- Be reliable: make sure you make promises you CAN keep. Your child is at a highly impressionable age, so it is vital to show them that you are reliable and that you will keep your word
- Alter communication: most important way to build trust with your child is through proper communication- communication that leaves your child feeling empowered, validated, and supported!
Here are a few examples of what you could say to your child :
| WHAT WE SAY | WHAT THEY HEAR |
| “You don’t have to eat carrot if you don’t want to” | “My parents don’t force me to eat when I don’t want to” |
| “If you don’t want to wear your shoes, you can just wear sandals” | “My parents listen to me when I feel uncomfortable” |
| “You’ll be able to ride bicycle as soon as you’re ready” | “My parents support me even though I am not able to do this” |
| “Would you like to give grandma a hug?” | “I choose who I would give a hug to” |
