Self-awareness is a skill that must be fostered and developed. Self-aware children understand how their actions are perceived by others, when to use their strengths, when to back off, and how to identify areas for improvement. So, what should parents do when asked, “How can I help my child develop self-awareness?”
What is Self-awareness?
Self-awareness is the capacity to recognise and understand one’s own emotions, thoughts, and behaviors, and how they affect others. It is a key aspect of personal growth and development for children and adults alike.
The Advantages of Self-Awareness in Children
Developing self-awareness in children can bring about numerous benefits, including improved emotional regulation, better relationships with others, and enhanced decision-making skills. It also helps children understand their strengths and weaknesses, leading to increased self-esteem and confidence.
5 Ways to Help Your Children Develop Self-Awareness
Children learn through many different ways, here are five practical strategies to support your child’s growth in self-awareness:
Acknowledge the Challenges
It’s important to acknowledge that developing self-awareness can be challenging, especially for children. Encourage your child and let them know that it’s normal to have difficulties, but with time and effort, they can improve.
Don’t Make Weakness a Taboo Subject
Helping your child understand their strengths and weaknesses is an important aspect of developing self-awareness. Avoid making weaknesses a taboo subject, and instead, encourage your child to recognise and embrace them as opportunities for growth.
Learn How to Express Emotions
Encourage your child to express their emotions and feelings. Teach them healthy ways to communicate their thoughts and feelings, such as journaling or talking to a trusted adult.
Develop Empathy
Empathy is an important aspect of self-awareness, as it helps children understand how their actions impact others. Encourage your child to put themselves in others’ shoes and consider their perspectives.
Conducting Self-Reflection
Encourage your child to engage in self-reflection by asking questions such as “How do you feel about your actions?” or “What impact did your actions have on others?” This can help your child understand their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors and how they impact others.
Developing self-awareness is a journey that requires time, effort, and patience. By using these five strategies, you can help your child on their journey towards self-awareness and personal growth.
Help your kids practice Self-Awareness at UNIS Hanoi
Your child’s Self-Awareness journey begins with choosing the right school. At UNIS Hanoi, we understand the importance of self-awareness and strive to create an environment that promotes it through our educational programs. Here are some of the ways we help your children practice self-awareness through these subjects:
Math
At UNIS Hanoi, we incorporate self-reflection into our math program, encouraging children to think about how their actions and decisions impact their work. Our program helps children understand their own thought processes and develop critical thinking skills.
Reading
Reading is an excellent way to develop empathy, as children are exposed to diverse perspectives and experiences. Our reading program at UNIS Hanoi is designed to promote self-awareness, encouraging children to reflect on their thoughts and emotions while reading.
Writing
Writing provides an outlet for children to express themselves and their experiences, promoting self-awareness and personal growth. Our writing program at UNIS Hanoi emphasises self-reflection, encouraging children to think about their thoughts and experiences and how they impact others.
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Digital Play
Digital play is an excellent tool for promoting self-awareness, as children are able to reflect on their experiences, thoughts, and emotions. Our digital play program at UNIS Hanoi starts from Early Years 3 where children are given limited access to an iPad and encouraged to play basic games to encourage self-reflection. More technology is then introduced as the children progress through the school, helping them understand how their actions impact others in a digital space.
Conclusion
We hope you’ve learned a little more about self-awareness and know the answer to “How can I help my child develop self-awareness?”.
UNIS Hanoi is dedicated to promoting self-awareness and personal growth in children through our educational programs. By utilising the resources and opportunities provided at UNIS Hanoi, you can help your child on their journey towards self-awareness and empowerment.
Enrolment is open for the 2023-2024 academic year. Apply today!
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