Peer pressure is not only for the professionals or adults; even children face this crisis in life. They may not face it in the initial years, but as children grow, you will see that they care more about what their fellows think and feel about them. It sometimes changes the child’s behavioral pattern and might make them indulge in activities like shoplifting, cheating, and more. So, the next time you think that finding the best Abu Dhabi international school is your only responsibility, brace yourself for the other challenges in bringing up your child.
Peer pressure mostly becomes evident in the children during their secondary schooling years. It is that time when parents have to be super careful and observant about their child’s behaviour. Let us discuss some fruitful ways to help your kid handle peer pressure in school.
How can parents help children handle peer pressure?
Prepare them well
The first and foremost thing is to make your child aware of all the possible situations they may face during their schooling. Discuss different possible scenarios where they may want to look or behave like someone else. Or they want to do something to impress others. Tell them these feelings are normal, and everyone at their age experiences them.
Teach them to take a stand
Once the kids know what can happen, they need to know how to deal with it. Every parent must teach their kids to have a voice of their own and speak up for what they feel is right. Tell them there is no need to impress others and that their own self is perfect. Moreover, every parent should teach their child not to try to influence others with their thoughts.
Give them clarity of thoughts
The primary reason for peer pressure during the secondary schooling years is the confusion in thoughts. These kids are too young to understand situations and think of them rationally. So, it is vital to educate your child and give them clarity of thoughts. Listen to their issues and queries carefully and answer all of them. The idea is to make sure that there is no confusion in their minds and they always have the guidance on how they should behave.
The power of NO
It is vital to teach your child when and how to say NO. You can start by modelling similar behaviour at home. Say no to your child for things you need to and keep it abrupt so that they learn to do the same. It helps as your children will know that they do not have to do anything that they don’t feel like doing. You also need to choose the best Abu Dhabi international School that encourages children to keep their opinions.
These things can help you teach your child how to handle peer pressure. Keep in mind that you have to keep calm and have patience while dealing with your child. They will throw tantrums and behave irresponsibly sometimes, as all this is new for a growing child. You need to guide them through the situation, showing them the right path.
