All of our children are personalities themselves with individual likes, dislikes, and interests. Knowing what makes a child excited and hesitant is precious for the building of a closer relationship as well as their development itself. However, what they really like or do not is a little riddle, especially as their desires and dislikes change in a little while. Here are some simple yet effective ways to really know what sparks joy in your child’s life and connects you better.
1. Be an Observer of their play and free time
Kids are natural actors when they are doing things they enjoy. Observe what they tend to do when they are free. Is it playing with blocks, drawing, reading, or going outside? Such free play will give you an idea about their interest. Avoid stopping them and telling them to do this or that; just observe and note mentally. You might observe a pattern of things or particular toys, games, or activities they return to again and again.
Ask Open-Ended Questions
As a result of asking open-ended questions, you will make your child give you feedback more than the “yes or no” responses. You will not ask, “Did you like your day in school?” Instead, you will ask, “What was the most fun part of your day?” Or, “What would you love to do this weekend?” This way, the door opens to more comprehensive answers and will enable you to know their preferences and interests better.
Introduce a mix of activities
Expose your child to a wide range of activities that can help him or her figure out what is actually liked and what doesn’t work. Take them to the museum, the local library, or a game of their favorite sport. Bake together, paint masterpieces, or create sculptures in your home. Gardening, animals at the petting zoo nearest to you, playing a musical instrument, can all be things to elicit interest or disinterest. They tend to react with clues to these experiences to tell you much about their personality and preferences.
4. Keep a “Likes and Dislikes” Journal Together Make a “likes and dislikes” journal with your child. This is one of those fun, creativity-driven activities that, when done together, really helps to create a better understanding of what your child likes and dislikes. Ask your child to draw or write about things she likes and dislikes. This exercise makes your child think more profoundly about her likes and dislikes, and you will probably find out many things about which she’ll surprise you.
5. Observe How They Interact with Other People
At times the way they relate with friends, siblings or class mates brings out things you might not catch around home. For example, if they love arranging games among a group or are eager volunteers in certain activities when they get together with others, they might show you another side of them that they just do not express as well when alone.
6. Respect their dislikes as much as their likes
It is equally important to understand what he dislikes. As tough as it may be to tell them to do something we feel would be best for them by attending the events we want, their dislike is respected when it is listened to. If they don’t want to do something, simply ask why. They may open up for you about why they feel that way, and this may guide them in finding other activities they will enjoy.
7. Update Their Preferences over Time
Kids’ interests can change overnight as they grow. What was the favorite last year-for instance, painting-can now be less appealing, and the child is keen on science experiments or outdoor sports. Regularly visit what they like and dislike currently-through casual conversations, through engaging in regular family activities, or by reviewing the “likes and dislikes” journal. Keeping in touch with their changing preferences helps you support them as they explore new hobbies.
