5 Tips in Raising Happy Children

Is it possible to raise happy kids, which will have a lasting effect on them into adulthood? Experts believe that genetics don’t necessary play a role in genuine happiness-- they believe half comes from a happy home. They found that 50 percent of happiness is the result of genes, and the other? Christine Carter, Ph.D of the Greater Good Science Center in Berkeley, California said happiness in children goes beyond the scope of traits. "Happiness is really a wide range of positive emotions that are more learned behavior than inborn traits. Our children develop their habits of thinking, feeling, and behaving based on what we teach them about the world, their relationships, and our expectations.” What can parents do? Parents can influence a child’s life in a positive matter and here are five to consider.

Perfection

Don’t aim for perfection at home, look for effort. If a kid only gets praise when they achieve something in sports or school, they will learn that is it. Culture wields this weapon and society allows it. Perfection is a dangerous for kids as they believe nothing will be good enough. Nip that in the bud.

Dr. Jim Taylor wrote inPsychology Today that the word “perfection” needs to be taken out. Use excellence. Excellence takes all of the good aspects of perfection (e.g., achievement, high standards, disappointment with failure) and leaves out its unhealthy parts (e.g., connecting achievement with self-esteem, unrealistic expectations, fear of failure). Excellence still sets the bar high, but it never connects failure with the love you give your children (or the love they give themselves).”