Aggression in children can be due to many reasons primarily genetic, family, and environment. Where influence of genes is not in our control, the atmosphere at home and environmental influences to a great extent can be made positive. And it is the parents who can help the child most to control and express his aggression in the right way.
Analyze the cause of aggression: Stress and unhealthy relations at home; violent programs on T.V.; aggressive peer group; inappropriate methods of discipline by teachers go a long way in deciding the level of aggression in a child. Minimize the effect of these factors.
Teach coping skills: It is important that you let your child express his aggression or else he'll become frustrated leading to more aggression. Guide him to express his feelings in an acceptable manner without resorting to physical force or foul language.
Talk to your child: When your child is calm, bring to his notice how his behavior hurts everyone and also harms his own happiness. Stories on aggressive behavior are an effective means to send signals to the child. When your child exhibits restraint in his aggression, appreciate him but never criticize him for being aggressive.
Channelise your child's aggressiveness: Plan activities for your child as
per his interests like skating, yoga, taekwon-do, swimming or other outdoor sports. This will help to release his extra energy, thus making him less aggressive.
Be a role model: If you use aggression to express your emotions, don't expect your child to act cool. Children watch and follow their parents closely. Hence practice what you preach to your child.
For your parenting related queries, write to the renowned parenting expert Sudha Gupta at sudha_gupta@mothersprideonline.com Selected questions will win 'Celebrate Childhood' by Sudha Gupta. HAPPY PARENTING
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