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Showing posts from July, 2025

How To Discipline Children Who Always Say "No." When Sent To Errands

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 Disciplining children who consistently respond with "No." when sent to errands is a tedious responsibility. The queer behaviour which children exhibit by saying "No.", when they are sent to errands stem from different factors, including assertiveness, independence (autonomy), or even defiance. To address this effectively, it is important to understand the underlying reasons for their behaviours and implement strategies that promote cooperation and responsibility.  First, it is critical to establish clear communication and set expectations. Parents should explain the importance of completing tasks and the consequences of not doing so. For example, if a child is asked to fetch a book from another room, the parent can explain that this task helps maintain the organization and saves time. By setting clear expectations, children can understand what is expected of them, and what is not. From there, they begin to have a sense of responsibility.  Another approach is to inv...

Parents Unintentionally Teach Their Children Not To Obey Them

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 Without any iota of doubt, parents often unintentionally teach their children not to obey rules through various actions and behaviours that undermine their authority. How far is this assertion true? How can parents who love their children exceedingly turn around to make them disobedient and Iawless? One way that parents contribute to children's disobedience is by being inconsistent in enforcing rules and consequences. Once parents frequently change rules or fail to enforce it, and follow through on consequences, the children will learn and believe that rules and laws are flexible and can be ignored and trampled under the feet. It is more honourable for parents not to make rules in the family at all than to fail to follow it up to the end. When children break rules at home and get away with them, uncensored, unscathed, and without their parents raising eyebrows, it automatically gives them the filip to disobey rules at schools and in the society. That is how it works! For example, ...

Socialization And Its Relevance

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 Socialization is a vital process that shapes individuals into functioning member of society, enabling them to navigate complex relationships, norms, and expectations. Through socialization, individuals learn to communicate effectively, understand social cues, and develop behaviours that are acceptable within their cultures. This process begins from birth and continues throughout life, influencing various aspects of human development, including cognitive, emotional, and social growth.  One of the cardinal agents of socialization is the family, which plays a crucial role in shaping an individual's value, belief, and behaviours. Parents and caregivers model behaviours, teach social norms, and provide feedback that helps children understand what is expected of them and what is not. In many Asian cultures, for example, family is highly valued, and children are taught to prioritize family obligations and respect for elders. This emphasis on family socialization can have a profound ...

What Are The Challenges Facing Adolescents?

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 Adolescence, defined as the transitional period between childhood and adulthood, is a critical phase of development characterized by significant physical, emotional, and psychological changes. During adolescence, children encounter a range of challenges that can impact their development, well-being, and future prospects. One notable challenge faced by adolescents is identity formation, as they strive to establish a sense of self and belonging in their peer groups and the society at large. The causes of these adolescent challenges are complex, influenced by a range of factors, including family dynamics, peer relationships, social media, and cultural expectations. For example, adolescents who experienced conflict or instability in their family relationships may be more likely to struggle with emotional and psychological challenges. Similarly, adolescents who are exposed to social media may experience pressure to conform with certain standards or expectations, which can impact their ...

Fine Motor And Gross Motor Skills Development In Children

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 Fine motor and gross motor skills development are two important aspects of children's physical development, playing a crucial role in their overall growth and ability to interact with their environment. Fine motor skills refer to the precise movements of small muscle groups in the hands, fingers, and feet, which enable children to perform movements such as grasping, manipulating objects, writing, buttoning a cloth, and tying shoelaces, etc. Gross motor skills development, on the other hand, involves large muscle groups, enabling children to perform movements such as walking, running, standing, jumping, swimming, skiing, and others.  Fine motor skills are critical for children's cognitive and academic development, as they enable children to perform tasks such as drawing, writing, and puzzles. Children who struggle with fine motor skills may experience difficulties with tasks such as buttoning shirts, tying shoelaces, or using utensils to eat. In some cultures, fine motor skill...

Parents' Misbehaviours Which Deplete Child's Moral Layers

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Parents' misbehaviours play a significant role in damaging their children's moral layers, leading them down to a path of destructive lifestyles. Neglect, emotional abuse, favouritism, inconsistent discipline, hypocrisy, lack of emotional support, and exposure to harmful behaviours, are some of the bad behaviours parents and caregivers exhibit that can have a sense of abandonment, making it challenging for children to form healthy relationships. Emotional abuse, on the other hand, can erode a child's self-esteem and confidence, leading him/ her to seek for validation in unhealthy ways. Favouritism can create resentment and jealousy among siblings, while inconsistent discipline can confuse children about what is right or wrong. Hypocrisy can also undermine a child's moral development, as he/ she may feel that it is acceptable to say one thing and do another. Parents and caregivers may enjoy various control strategies that can harm their children's moral development. T...

Ways To Inculcate The Love Of Learning In Children

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 Inculcating (instilling) the love of learning in children is one of the most valuable gifts parents and caregivers can give to them. When children develop the love of learning, they become curious, motivated, and empowered to explore the world around them. To inculcate the love of learning in children, parents and caregivers can employ several proven strategies. One effective strategy it to lead by example. Children often mimic the behaviours and lifestyles of their parents, caregivers, and peers. Therefore, it is advisable that parents and caregivers themselves model a love of learning for their children to emulate. By sharing their own interests and passions, adults can demonstrate how learning can be a lifelong process. This can be as simple as reading a book in the presence of children. Many illiterate parents who love learning have succeeded in planting the seed of learning in their children by constantly persuading and urging them to study their books. The first batch of edu...

Emergence Of Ego In Children

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  The emergence of ego in children for the first time is a significant milestone in their psychological and social development, marking the beginning of their sense of self and identity. As children begin to develop their ego, they start to form a sense of "I-ness" and "me-ness", which enables them to differentiate themselves from others and understand their place in the world. This process typically begins around the ego of 18 months to 3 years, as children start to asset independence (autonomy), test boundaries, and explore their surroundings.  During this stage, children begin to develop a sense of ownership and possession, often claiming toys or objects as their own and becoming possessive about them. They may begin to assert their individuality, expressing preferences and making choices that reflect their unique personality. For example, a child may insist on wearing a particular shirt or playing with a specific toy, demonstrating their growing sense of self an...

Effects Of Substance Abuse On Child's Development

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 Substance Abuse, defined as the misuse of substances such as drugs or alcohols, can have severe long-term effects on a child's development. When a parent or caregiver struggles with substance abuse, it can invariably impact on child's physical, emotional, and psychological well-being, potentially leading to developmental delays, behavioral problems, and long-term consequences. One of the primary effects of substance abuse on child's development is the disruption of a stable and nurturing environment. Children who grow up in households where substance abuse is a norm may experience neglect, instability, and trauma, which can impact their emotional and psychological development. Research has shown that children exposed to substance abuse are a higher risk of developing mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, and may struggle with attachment and relationships.  Substance abuse can also impact a child's physical development, particularly in cases where the subst...

Youth Addiction: How To Save Your Child From It

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 Youth addiction is a pervasive and devastating issue that affects millions of young people across the world, with disastrous implications for their health, overall well-being, and future prospects. What is addiction? It is a chronic brain disorder characterized by compulsive seeking and use of substance or behaviours despite negative consequences and warnings to desist from it. The causes of youth addiction are complex, involving a combination of genetic, environment, and social factors.  One of the greatest causes of youth addiction is the influence of peers and environment. Young people often experiment with substances or behaviours as a way to fit in or cope with stress and emotions. Parents and caregivers can also contribute to the development of addiction in their children, often unintentionally. For example, parents who model addictive behaviours themselves are not helping matters at all as they are indirectly teaching their children to behave like  them. Therefore...

Top Problems Parents Face When Raising Teenagers And Their Solutions

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  Raising teenagers can be a daunting task. It is fraught with challenges that test the patience, understanding, and love of their parents for them. As teenagers sail through the complexities and turbulent journey of self-discovery, peer relationships, and academic pressure, parents are frequently left grappling with a legion of issues which seem irrepressible. From communication breakdowns and bullying to depression and substance abuse, the top problems parents face while raising teenagers are complex and require a nuanced approach.  One of the commonest issues is communication breakdown, where teenagers often feel misunderstood, leading to frustration, withdrawal, and rebellious behaviours. Parents can bridge this gap by practising active listening; creating an open and non-judgmental atmosphere, and making a genuine effort to understand their teenagers' perspectives. For example, in Japan, parents prioritize building strong relationships with their children, which helps fos...

Key Challenges Faced By Most Teenagers

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 The teenage years are a time of significant growth, exploration, and transformation, but they are also marked by numerous challenges that can impact a young person's physical, emotional, and psychological well-being. One of the primary challenges faced by most teenagers is navigating the complexities of identity formation, as they strive to establish a sense of self and belonging in their peer groups and society at large. This process can be fraught with uncertainty, self-doubt, and experimentations as teenagers navigate the complexities of developmental stages. Another notable challenge faced by teenagers is academic pressure. The pressure to perform satisfactorily in schools, secure good grades, and meet parental and societal expectations can be overwhelming, leading to stress, anxiety, and burnout. In countries like Japan and South Korea, for example, the academic pressure is extraordinarily intense, with students often spending long hours studying daily, and intense competitio...

How Is Society Transforming The Psychology Of Children?

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 The society is transforming the psychology of children in many ways, shaped by factors such as technological advancement, changing family dynamics, and shifting cultural values. The rapid evaluation of digital technology, for example, has dramatically altered the way children interact with the world around them, influencing their cognitive, emotional, and social development. In many countries, children are growing up in a world where smartphones , social media, and online gaming are ubiquitous, shaping their experiences, relationships, and worldviews.  One of the primary ways in which society is transforming the psychology of children is through the impact of social media on their self-esteem, body image, and relationships. Social media platforms, such as Instagram and Tick Tok, can create unrealistic expectations and promote consumerism, materialism, and competition among children. Research has shown that excessive social media use can lead to increased symptoms of depressio...

What Is Deviant Behaviour In Small Children?

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Deviant behaviour refers to actions, behaviours, characteristics, or attitudes that violate societal norms, expectations, rules, and constitutionally instituted laws, often resulting in negative reactions or sanctions from others. It manifests aggressive, disruptive, or antisocial behaviours. Understanding behaviours in small children is crucial for early intervention and support, as it can have long-term consequences for their social, emotional, and academic development. Deviant behaviours in small children can take many forms, including aggression, defiance, and hyperactivity, and can be influenced by a range of factors, including genetics, environment, and parenting styles. Deviance can either be formal or informal, and its impact can always be devastating on the society.  Formal deviance involves violation of formally constituted or enacted laws or rules or legislations of a sovereign State. Some examples of formal deviance include crimes, armed robbery, drug and substance abus...

How Do Single Mothers Successfully Raise Children Without Their Husbands?

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 It is extremely challenging for single mothers to successfully raise their children without the support of their husbands. But, by dint of hardwork, determination, and the right strategies, they can provide for their children's physical, emotional, and psychological needs. To succeed in raising children singlehandedly, single mothers should prioritize building a strong support network, establishing a stable route, and fostering open communication with their children. First and foremost, single mothers should focus on creating a nurturing and loving environment for their children. This involves setting clear boundaries, establishing a daily routine, and providing emotional support and validation. Single mothers should also prioritize self-care, taking time for themselves to recharge and manage stress. By so doing, they can better cope with the demands of solo parenting and provide a more stable and nurturing environment for their children.  In addition to building a strong sup...

Significance Of Children's Books In Their Development

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 Children's books play a significant role in the development of young minds, shaping their understanding of the world, fostering a love for reading and knowledge acquisition, and influencing their emotional and cognitive growth. Through engaging stories, vibrant illustrations, and relatable characters, children's books can capture a child's imagination, stimulate his/ her creativity, and provide valuable lessons that can be useful throughout lifetime. In many countries, children's books are an integral part of early childhood education, helping to promote literacy, socio-emotional learning, and cultural awareness.  One way in which children's books contribute to development is by promoting literacy skills. Exposure to books and reading from an early age can help children develop phonological awareness, vocabulary, and comprehensive skills, laying the foundation for future academic success. In countries like Finland, reading is highly valued, and children are encoura...

Impact Of Social Insecurities On Child's Development

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 The impact of social insecurities on a child's development can be profoundly unspeakable, affecting the child's emotional, social, and psychological well-being. Children who experience social insecurities, such as poverty, homelessness, family instability, inaccessibility to quality education, may struggle to develop a sense of safety and security, which is essential for healthy development. When children feel insecure, they may become anxious, fearful, fretful, and uncertain about their future. This situation can impact their ability to form healthy relationships, achieve success, and develop emotional resilience. What is social security? It refers to a Government programme or system that provides financial assistance, support, and services to citizens, particularly those who are vulnerable, such as the elderly (including the retirees), disabled, or unemployed. The social security aims to ensure a basic level of economic security and well-being for individuals and families. T...

Unplanned Teenage Pregnancy And Young Parenthood: Its Causes, Impact, And Mitigation Strategies

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 Unplanned teenage pregnancy and young parenthood are significant public concerns worldwide, with far-reaching consequences for the young parents, their children, and the larger society as a whole. Unplanned teenage pregnancy refers to a pregnancy that occurs without prior planning or intention, often resulting from unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. Young parenthood, which encompasses both teenage and young adults parents, can have a profound impact on the lives of the parents and their children.  The causes of unplanned teenage pregnancy are very complex, involving a range of factors, including lack of education, limited access to reproductive health services, poverty, and cultural norms that promote early marriages and childbearing (as it obtains in Niger where early marriage is a common practice, and girls are expected to become pregnant soon after marriage), and perpetuating a vicious cycle of poverty and limited opportunities. The impact of unplanned teenage pregn...

Psychological Consequences Of Bullying

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 Bullying, defined as a repeated and intentional behaviour intended to harm, degrade, or intimidate another person, can have severe and long-term psychological consequences for victims. The impact of bullying can be profound, affecting a person's self-esteem, mental health, and overall well-being. In many cultures of the world, bullying is a significant public health concern, with concerted efforts being made to prevent and address bullying in schools and communities head-on. One unmistakable psychological consequence of bullying is the development of anxiety and depression. Victims of bullying may have harrowing experiences such as persistent fear, sadness, and anxiety, which can interfere with their daily academic functioning and relationships. Research has shown that bullying can lead to increased symptoms of fear, anxiety, and depression, including social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and major depressive disorder. In countries like Japan, the pressure to conf...

Pregnancy In Adolescence: Its Causes, Impacts, And Mitigation Strategies

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 Pregnancy in adolescence is a significant shameful concern worldwide. It has long-term consequences for the young mother, her child, family, and the larger society as a whole. Adolescent pregnancy, defined as pregnancy occurring in girls between 15-19 years, is often the corollary of complex interplay of factors, including lack of education, poverty, limited access to reproductive health resources, and cultural norms that promote early marriages and childbearing. In many countries, adolescents pregnancy rates have declined dramatically in recent years, but disparities still persist, with certain populations, such as Hispanics and African American teens, experiencing higher rates of pregnancy. The causes of adolescents pregnancy vary, and are influenced by a range of factors, including socio-economic status of parents and caregivers, level of education, and access to reproductive health services. Poverty and lack of education can limit a young girl's opportunities and increase her ...