What exactly is a strong-willed child? Some parents call them “difficult” or “stubborn,” or more positively, “spirited.” But we could also see strong-willed kids as people of integrity who aren’t easily swayed from their own viewpoints. Strong-willed kids are spirited and courageous. They want to learn things for themselves rather than accepting what others say, so they test the limits over and over. They want desperately to be “in charge” of themselves, and will sometimes put their desire to “be right” above everything else. When their heart is set on something, their brains seem to have a hard time switching gears. Strong-willed kids have big, passionate feelings and live at full throttle.
Here are few tips to deal with the strong willed child :
- Diffuse the bomb. The second you engage with confrontational or judgemental words, it’s order. Choose your words. Diffuse. Validate. Let them know you understand their frustrations.
- Prepare for a QnA with your child. A strong willed child will question you, often. If they want something, and they can’t have it, they will demand to know why.
- Invest in a kitchen timer. Let them know that the timer is your argument referee. That they can’t stay angry for longer than the timer is set for, or there will be consequences.
- Referee their bossy behaviour. Even the strong willed child needs to mind his manners, and that’s where you come in.
- Offer your child choices. Just be mindful of the choice you give them, making sure it’s one you are comfortable with.
Reference : https://www.developgoodhabits.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/strong-willed-child-infographic.jpg
Interesting article here! I think parenting a strong willed child has gotta be hard work!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Haha yes my parents do tell me that….haha
LikeLiked by 1 person
When my son was just born, his nurse said, “He has a mind of his own. He eats and sleeps when he wants to.” Eight years later he still knows what he wants when he wants it. Looks like I’ll be investing in that kitchen timer.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hahah you have a Alpha Male on your hands. He could lead in future. Good Luck.
LikeLike
So true
LikeLiked by 1 person
Glad you like the post Christine.
LikeLike
My children grew up knowing if they did something unsavory there would be certain consequences. It worked most of the time!
LikeLiked by 1 person
My parents used the same behaviour with us. We turned out well 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Reblogged this on The Reluctant Poet.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you for the reblog. I understand that more and more parents a facing this challenge these days.
LikeLike