Parenting 6yr olds: A Guide for Parents
It is an exciting but daunting task parenting 6yr olds. Children at this age are transitioning from being a toddler into their early school years, and it is important to understand how best to support them as they learn and grow. As parents, we want the best for our children, so let’s dive into what you need to know about parenting six-year-olds.
Helping Them Manage Their Emotions
Six-year-olds are now starting to understand their own emotions better, which can both be a blessing and a curse. They may be able to express themselves in more detail than before, but they will also struggle with regulating their emotions. Try not to get angry when your child has an emotional outburst or melt down – instead use it as an opportunity to teach them healthy coping mechanisms such as deep breathing or counting backwards from 10. Both of these tools form part of what is referred to as “grounding”.
Reminding your child of the physical space they inhabit, rather than getting lost in their overwhelming emotions. You could do this, for example, by having them point out 5 objects that are blue, 4 that are red, 3 that are yellow, 2 that are white and 1 that is green, in an effort for your child to recalibrate and calm down naturally.
Encouraging Curiosity & Creativity
At this age, children are becoming increasingly curious about their environment and are eager to learn new things.
Creating activities, such as reading books together or doing activities outdoors in nature, that the whole family can do together, doesn’t only foster the child’s curiosity, it also creates the perfect environment for parents and their child to create a strong bond.
Encouraging creative pursuits such as drawing or building with blocks can also help develop critical thinking skills that will be beneficial later in life.
Setting Limits & Boundaries
It’s important that children understand limits and boundaries while they are still young, so that they can develop self-control, as well as respect for authority figures. Additionally, it is found that children who are not taught boundaries perceive those around them to be things that exist purely to meet their needs. Setting consistent rules and expectations (and following through on consequences) will help your child learn right from wrong. It is also important that you keep communication channels between you and your child open and explain why certain rules exist so that your child feels understood rather than punished unnecessarily.
Parenting a six-year-old can be tricky, but incredibly rewarding! Be sure to understand that they are still little humans with big emotions, who are learning and perceiving a lot for the first time.
Be there for them, spend time with them doing something together that you both can enjoy (like yoga). Communicate openly and regularly, while setting rules and boundaries that create a safe space for them to grow and develop.
Ultimately, parenting a six-year-old is all about striking the right balance between providing your child with freedom whilst keeping them safe – something all parents can strive for.
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