Your teen’s interests usually manifest at early childhood. You see your child holding a pencil, and draw an image of whatever that takes on his or her fancy. Or, you see him or her holding a brush, and sing with all their might. You see them liking the feel of water, and splashing their way into it. You see them following the steps of a dance number on a TV show. These are all manifestations of your child’s growing interests in sports, music, arts, or other forms of recreation. Your child’s interests may begin even at the tender age of three, although it may not be that noticeable yet as toddlers because your child is at the stage of imitating what they see. It takes a lot of sensitivity on your part as parents to recognize your child’s interests. When the child continues to show interests as he or she reaches adolescence, then most likely, they are really into it. So, what do you do?
Let me share to you how my sister helped his or her youngest daughter develop her interests in both swimming and singing.
Be Sensitive
My sister used to leave Nikki under our mother’s care when she was still working. Nikki would hum a lot while swinging and playing outside. Mom also remembered how extremely high her cries were when she was still an infant. She told my sister about what she learned.
Identify Your Child’s Interests
Upon realization, my sister decided to let Nikki have voice lessons. That is not all, Nikki also liked going to the pool, which got her into swimming lessons as well.
Show Support
How they came up with the schedule? Nikki went to the pool every afternoon after her classes. It’s when she gets home that she starts to study. And her voice lessons were taken every weekend. Nikki’s parents were at her side every step of the way.
Sounds Hectic? Yes, it was, but then, all of these paid off when she was in her teens.
Appreciation and Constant Affirmation
When Nikki was in her teens, the entire family was always there for her. We attended her recitals and competitions since she was already into competitive swimming, and earning rewards.
This is of relevance for a teen, because it may be a win or lose situation for her. Your teen could either pursue or loose their dream. If they lose in a competition, then assure them that losing is okay, and this should be taken as a challenge of doing better the next time.
Encouragement
Nikki was ready for more. The love and support she got from his or her parents motivated her to pursue her dream of becoming a singer professionally, and a competitive swimmer nationally. With much encouragement, she really made it to where she is now.
Thus, developing your teen’s interests is something you, as parents, should never take for granted. When you see a potential in your teen, go on, and do whatever it takes them to succeed. Let them soar to greater heights!
Elaine Enchiverri is a professional freelance writer who enjoys writing about various topics, including how to encourage your teenager.