Happy Home, Happy Children

From FOCUS ON THE FAMILY, Today, 01-Apr-2008 edition

 

HAPPY HOME, HAPPY CHILDREN

By Dr James Dobson

 

As strange as it may sound, every household has a

personality. You can usually detect within a few minutes

if a home is lighthearted and winsome, strict and rigid,

or depressed and pessimistic.

 

Every family member contributes to a home’s overall

temperament and style of functioning.

 

But, it’s primarily the parents who determine the tone

and character of home life.

 

And that household personality greatly influences

a child’s behaviour and his outlook on life.

 

Researchers found that children exhibited high levels

of anxiety and stress when their home atmosphere was

characterised by restriction and overcontrol; where they

were granted little freedom to express themselves or act silly.

 

As you might expect, in homes where freedom and

self-expression were encouraged, the children were more

optimistic about the future, and had a greater ability to

cope with stress.

 

Remember, as parents, the tone you set in the home can make

all the difference in your child’s personality development

and outlook on life.