You wouldn’t think kids need much help when it comes to discovering what they’re passionate about. They kind of fall naturally into interests, don’t they?
Not always. Some children are more naturally timid. They aren’t as inclined to explore and discover without a little encouragement to nudge them along the way. Others might have trouble finding the things they’re good at or have trouble settling on any one thing. Of course, they aren’t necessarily supposed to know what they’re going to do for the rest of their lives at this age. However, they do need to know what it’s like to feel so strongly about something that it becomes a motivator in their life.
A strong “Why” now will help them form a strong “Why” as adults. So, how can you help?
Give Them Challenges
Please encourage your children to try new things, especially things you know will stretch them to the limits. It’s good for them to stretch themselves and see what they’re made of. Especially challenge them in areas you think they might have a natural talent or a strong interest already building.
Give Them Opportunities
A “Why” can’t form in a vacuum. They will find their passion only after trying many things and seeing what they like best. Sign them up to play sports or give them music lessons. Try out programs where they can explore the arts, nature, or science. If you don’t have money to spend, look around at free or low-cost options in your area. Community Centers offer all kinds of new experiences for little to no cost, as do churches and other organizations. Look for after-school programs or seminars and programs offered through your local community college as well.
Get Involved
How do you know what you can encourage your child to explore if you have no idea what they’re interested in? Hang out with them on the weekend, attend their games and recitals, sit down with them while they’re doing their homework, have long conversations. Let them do the talking as they show you what’s going on in their lives which causes them to get excited.
Don’t Be Too Quick to Fix Things
It’s not good to look for a solution when your child complains of boredom. Instead, hold back a bit and see what they get up to on their own. They might wind up showing you an interest you never even knew they had.
The key to understanding the things which drive your child and leave them excited is to be an active part of their lives. A healthy “Why” will form out of the things they do naturally with the occasional bit of encouragement from you. The best part? If you’re prepared to encourage and prod a little when you see a positive direction they want to go, they’ll manage the rest on their own.
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