Six tips for Dads for raising resilient kids – from Dr. Robert Brooks

Dr. Robert Brooks, co-author of Raising
Resilient Children provided GreatDad with this list of tips for
raising resilient kids.  “Resilient” children, he explains, are kids who have the coping skills
necessary to deal with adversity.   These kids aren’t protected from the real world, but
are increasingly ready for real world challenges as they grow up.

1. Build a strong foundation in your relationships with your
   kids.   Many people say their fondest memories of their parents are when
   they had “special time” alone with the parent. It’s important for kids to hear words like,
   “I really enjoy being with you.”
2. Find out what makes your child feel
   successful.  Dr. Brooks calls these areas “islands of competence.”  
   He suggests that we all make sure that we are involved in and reinforce activities where
   kids feel successful.  These activities may not be the same areas a dad was strong in
   while growing up, however.  That means dads have to make an extra effort to understand
   their children despite differences, and support their individual child’s
   strengths.
3. Be demonstrative with your love. Dads, especially, need
   to understand the value of the hug or the kiss in helping a child feel good about him or
   herself.  Dads should not hesitate to tell children “I love you.”
4. Be
   Playful. – Don’t miss an opportunity to get down on the floor and play with your
   kids.
5. Do not protect or isolate your child from failure. 
   Instead, make sure your child understands that failure is an opportunity to learn and do
   better next time.
6. Set limits. – Kids need limits and dads should
   not feel hesitant to say ‘no,’ even if it brings momentary disappointment to their
   kids.

Dr. Brooks’ new book, Raising
a Self-Disciplined Child is due out in September, 2007.

Also read

Raising Responsible Kids – Ideas from Dr. Robert Brooks

Raising Resilient Kids – Ideas from Dr Robert Brooks

Paul Banas

Editor/Founder