Why Expectations of Children Are Important

As parents, it is important that we express to our children we want them to do their best, at all times. The type of behavior your child exhibits will be a direct reflection of the expectations that you have set for them. If your child knows that you expect the best from them; in terms of both behavior and tasks they undertake, that is the type of behavior and effort you will get from them in return. Children can pick up on our attitudes towards them. They will form a belief based upon that attitude and act accordingly.

If a child suspects that we believe they are lazy, we need to curb that through positive reinforcement, and avoid negativity. If we don't, the child will then match that belief about being lazy and think that's what we expect of them, and in turn will act lazy. In essence, that will confirm our beliefs about them, and it will become a cycle of failure.

Conversely, if a child suspects that we believe they do well, are industrious, resourceful, fruitful, dynamic, inventive, and dependable, then the child will predominately stride to live up to those expectations; which will confirm to us those good things we think about them and their positive behavior. If you expect great behavior and actions from your child, it's important that they know we believe they are capable of such actions and behavior.

Whether your child succeeds or fails at a new task, or a good deed they undertake, it is imperative you praise them for the effort. The importance of setting clear, concise, rules which your child is responsible to follow can't be stressed enough. Just as important as setting the rules and behavior you expect from your child, are the consequences for your child not following the above mentioned rules.

The consequences need to be just as clear and concise as the rule is. Today's life for parents is hectic. However, if at all possible, it is best to try and maintain a regular daily routine for your child. It's also important for you child to have time for them to play and hang out with their friends

If you expect your child to make good decisions and choices, you have to show them that you believe they are capable of doing so. You should guide them in this endeavor, as well as set a positive example for them. You should also help them to become independent; by believing in them and helpfully guiding them to do things for themselves. Another way to encourage your child to be the best they can be, is by having honest, open, conversations with them. Allow them to talk about and express any and all feelings they have, even the unpleasant ones. By doing this, you are allowing them to work out anger and frustration instead of keeping it inside; which could manifest itself into bad behavior.

Of course, one of the biggest influences on how your child behaves, besides your expectations, is your actions. If you are a good role model, in terms of behavior, chances are good your child will follow your example. If your child sees that you take good care of yourself, and you expect the best from yourself, your child will pick up on this. Be sure to make good decisions and appropriate choices to the best of your ability.

When disciplining your child, it is essential that you are firm but fair. Also, to ensure your child strives to be the best, quality time spent with them is important. Encourage your child to partake in many different kinds of activities.

Make sure they give any activities they participate in an honest try. If they truly don't like them, at least make them do it for a fixed amount of time. By doing this, you're ensuring your child doesn't get the impression you're just letting them be a quitter at will. Who knows, in the time you specify, the activity may grow on them. If you have great expectations of your child, chances are good in the end, both your child and you will be pleased.