Show an interest in their interests by asking questions
Whether it be a fun skill they’ve mastered or a cool online class they’re taking, when your child shares an interest in something new, engage in conversation to show that you’re invested in their happiness. “If your child is bringing up a topic that you are very unfamiliar with, a way to show your interest is just by asking questions in a polite, non-defensive manner,” Gamboni said. “I think people like to play an expert role to an extent, and one thing that could increase the child’s confidence is by having the parent create a welcoming, safe space for them to educate. The parent could do that by active listening, asking questions, and paraphrasing and reflecting what they’re hearing.”
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