7 Strategies for Raising a Happy Child

Every parent wants to raise a happy child and there are several professional opinions on how to do that. I recently read an article summarizing a book by Edward Hallowell MD a child psychiatrist and author of The Childhood Roots of Adult Happiness. He stated that the results from a study with 90,000 teens surveyed stated "connectedness" - - a feeling of being loved, understood, wanted and acknowledged - emerged as the biggest protector against emotional duress, suicidal thoughts, and risky behaviors including smoking, drinking, and using drugs.

The seven strategies he indentifies are as follows:

1. Foster connections and love your children unconditionally.
2. You are not responsible for your children's happiness. Teach your children how to deal with negative situations which will help them to develop coping skills and resilience in life.
3. Nurture your own happiness. Happy parents are likely to have happy children. Make time for your own self-care and nurture the romance in your relationship with your spouse.
4. Praise your children for the effort of trying instead of the end result. This will help them to develop self-esteem and happiness.
5. Allow your child the opportunity to learn new skills to see what they are capable of doing on their own.
6. Make sure your children feel that they are a part of the family by giving them responsibilities at home. Chores keep your children connected and contributing to the family.
7. Teach your children to be grateful for the blessings that they receive each and every day. Keeping a journal and writing goals help them to be optimistic about their future.

Good luck!

Gina