You might not always share your child’s interests. In fact, sometimes you might not even understand them. But encouraging your child to be interested in different things is part of being a parent. Even when you can get a little tired of hearing about their latest obsession, it’s important to help them feel like their interests are worthy of their time, and yours. If you want to encourage your kids to develop their own passions, you can support them in several ways. Here are some of the steps you can take to show your support and encouragement, no matter how weird (to you) their interests might be.
Talk to them (and listen)
Talking about their interests can be one of your child’s favorite activities. They just want to know that someone is listening and maybe even shares in their interest. It’s not always easy to listen to someone talk about something that doesn’t interest you, even when it’s your own child, but it’s worth it when you can watch their face light up. Ask your child about their interests and make sure you show that you’re listening to them, too. Make an effort to learn and retain important information.
Buy related toys or games
Toys can help kids explore new interests, especially because you can find toys of all kinds. Some are specifically designed to nurture certain interests, like chemistry sets, while others might conveniently play into your child’s passions. For a child who loves fashion, LOL Surprise fashion dolls could be the right choice. My girls love them!
If your kid likes music, you could get them musical toys (as long as you don’t mind the noise). If their passion is dinosaurs, there are endless dinosaur toys of different kinds that they’re sure to love.
Look for classes or related activities
Finding things for kids to do that are related to their interests is a good way to encourage them, too. You could sign them up for classes to learn new skills or develop their passion. There are also camps and lessons for all kinds of things, from art to sports to technology. Or if you want something a little less structured, going to museums can be a good way to learn about everything from dinosaurs to Ancient Egypt. One of our favorites is the Field Museum in Chicago.
A trip to the nearest park or forest could be good for learning about nature.
Get involved
Kids don’t always want their parents to be involved in their own stuff, but many of them like it. Young children in particular want to share their passions with their parents. So if you want to personally engage with your child’s interests, there are a few ways you could do it. You could join in when they’re doing something they love, or maybe take your own lessons to pick up a new skill that you can share with them. Try learning some facts to share with them or skills you could pass on.
Encouraging your child’s interests will show them that their passions are meaningful and help them develop new skills and knowledge for life.
Marette Flora is the founder of Floradise blog and personalized gift shop. Marette is a passionate storyteller and creator. She attended the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism at Arizona State University and obtained a bachelor’s degree in journalism and mass communication.
She is passionate about creating helpful and meaningful things.