How To Raise A Happy Baby And Child (Birth To 12 Months)
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You will be surprised to know what makes the little ones happy. It is said that you can’t simply give happiness to babies, it is something that needs to be taught. This is because happiness is more intrinsic than extrinsic. So, it is important to equip the children with a set of skills that they can depend on throughout their lives. But, don’t worry. You don’t really have to know the ins and outs of child psychology to share the wisdom required to weather all the life challenges. With patience and determinations, every parent can ensure a foundation of happiness for their little ones. Here, we bring you some of these things that can help you out with the same:
1. Reading Your Little One’s Emotions
As you see the kids grow up, you will notice how they master the art of letting you know when something makes them feel upset or satisfied. You will see how they will have the brightest smile on their faces as soon as you enter the room. Or how they will start to cry as you take away their favorite toy from their hands. And, in fact, at times, you will observe them switching between tears and smile at such a fast pace. So, in a way, whatever they are feeling is out there for you to see. And, their facial expressions are like signals to motivate their caregivers or parents to respond in the best manner possible.
2. Enjoy With Them
While the favorite soft toy and the taste of the favorite food do bring a smile to your kids’ face, it is you who makes them feel the happiest. And, that is the most essential key to ensure their happiness. Try connecting with the kids and enjoy the moments you spend with them. As long as you are having fun with them, they will be enjoying too. If you play with them, not only will that create joy but it may also help them build skills needed to ensure future happiness. As the children grow up, you will notice them discovering their interests and disinterests during their ‘play time’. Be it their fascination with building houses, doing glass painting, and using kitchen stuff to make ‘potions’, among others.
3. Help Them Learn New Skills
It is often said that happiest are those who have learned how to master some skill. For example, when your kids take their first few steps, they get this feeling of accomplishment that makes them genuinely happy. It teaches them the value of discipline and perseverance too. They also understand how accomplishments can help them gain recognition among others. One incredible feeling that the kids experience is how they have some control in their life; so if they work, they will achieve their goals.
4. Cultivate Their Healthy Habits
Adequate amount of sleep, proper diet, and exercise are essential to ensure one’s well-being. And, this becomes even more important when it comes to kids. Also, give your kids enough space to release their energy, be it to roll over the floor or kick their legs in the air. It somehow puts them in a jovial mood. Also, see if your little ones crave for a routine. While most babies are pretty easy-going, there are some who desire a structure in their lives.
5. Let Them Figure It Out Too
It is essential that you respond to all your kids’ needs until the age of six months. But, this should change after that. While you may be still tempted to pitch in and make everything better for them, you should refrain from doing that each time. If you provide your children with an abundance of affection most of the times, it is alright if you let them cry once in a while. These scenarios give them an opportunity to figure out things on their own. They also learn how to cope in the process. And, these are valuable skills to have later on in life.
Do you have any other suggestions that you would like to share with fellow moms? If yes, please let us know in the comments section below. After all, every mother just wants to ensure a lifetime of happiness for her kids!
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