LOVE & LOGIC TIPS
You've probably noticed that kids are not born with this skill, and many are not shy about demonstrating their lack of appreciation for anything that delays the immediate delivery of their desires...This is normal for young children.
Parents understand they can pay now or pay bigger in the future. As such, they embrace the short-term commotion, wisely allowing their kids to experience the healthy struggle of wait time. These parents may provide some brief suggestions to their kids, such as:
- "Some kids decide to concentrate about something they really like. Sometimes that makes the time go faster."
- "Some kids decide to repeat to themselves, 'I can do this. I can do this. I'm big. I can do this.'"
- "Some kids decide to bring a book to read."
Wise parents also demonstrate this skill in front of their kids. Of course, this can be the most challenging part for many of us. While in traffic, while waiting in line at the store, they allow their kids to hear their thoughts. They think out loud:
- "Waiting is hard. Sometimes it's not very fun. But... it's such good practice. Good things come to those who wait!"
Finally, Love and Logic parents notice when their young ones do a good job of waiting, and they demonstrate that good things come to those who wait. While we don't believe in going overboard with rewards, it is fun and effective to occasionally provide a small one.
- "I noticed that you waited the entire time I was on the phone without interrupting. What do you think about going for ice cream?"
Learning to delay gratification is one of the most important skills we can give our kids.
