Self-control is one of the most important traits to cultivate in a child. Here are some useful tips to instill in them. The Internet teaches our children that they can have images, knowledge, and information on demand. The hyperconsumption society proves to them that candies and cakes are always available. But at what point in teaching our children are they taught the values of patience and self-control? Are they really important?

Self-control is the quality of a person who knows how to control himself/herself. Difficult to imagine, when his child rolls on the ground for a trifle, that one day, he will manage to control himself! And yet, self-control is acquired by parents, first educators. Here are five essential basics to teach children patience and self-control.

1. Develop their Concentration

Use simple activities (reading a book, playing with cubes, putting together a puzzle) to teach children to play with objects that require curiosity and attention. Ban the screens, which, instead of arousing concentration and curiosity, stupefy. Begin by noting how long they can concentrate. Then gradually, extend this time, inviting them to finish the started book or puzzle.

2. Teach Patience

When they claim something immediately, or something that another person has, teach them to wait. Tell them that others also have needs, that they are not alone. Teach them that they can not be heard immediately, at all times, and in all situations. Sometimes they have to wait, for example when adults talk.

Forcing them to wait for a few seconds before an answer is given can teach them to understand that there are limits. Educate them to be polite and take the time to say hello and goodbye. It means delaying an immediate urge to play. They must also learn to wait their turn to speak, especially in a sibling.

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3. Teach them to persevere

Teach them to persevere in difficult problems, manage disappointment and avoid situations because they are difficult or boring. This supposes knowing how to accept frustration and errors. Reward them when they have worked hard, regardless of the results. Help them understand how good it is to persevere in a challenge, to excel.

4. The long way of learning

Teach young children to be patient in learning: if they make mistakes and frustration, young children can learn to take a break and breathe deeply for a few seconds before trying again. For older children, it is advisable to ask a series of questions, to bring out the correct answer, rather than give it immediately.

5. For self-directed and engaged learning

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Offer simple toys and opportunities that encourage the child to be creative, such as play dough, Lego, Playmobil and other construction toys. Invest your garden with sandboxes, spaces designed to arouse the curiosity of the child. Reward their attempts to try new things. Let them, alone or with other children, explore for themselves.

Children are delicate and we need to handle them with a delicate hand. Do you know more? You can comment it down in the comment section.

Thanks for reading.