Encouraging Our Children to Be Who They Truly Are

Childhood: A Journey of Self-Discovery

Growing up, we often hear that our grades matter, the teams we join count, and the friends we make are significant. At home, parents guide us, while teachers direct us at school. In clubs and teams, leaders tell us what to do. But what about us? When did we lose sight of our true, God, given selves? When did our identities become defined by the world, instead of our souls and divine nature?

Looking back, as a child, I realize we often conformed to fit in. We didn’t want to be seen as "weird." Yet, even today, children who dare to be different often face bullying. As a former teacher, I witnessed this firsthand. How many of you felt the same way as a child? Instead of celebrating our uniqueness, we molded ourselves into what others wanted. Deep down, our souls cried out for acceptance, love, and validation.

How Do We Encourage Our Children to Be Themselves?

Your child has unique traits, talents and interests.

So, how can we encourage our children to embrace their true, divine, and beautiful selves? This has been my goal as a teacher working with children. Instead of stripping away their individuality, let’s teach them about the strength of their unique personalities. Our youth often feel undervalued and unappreciated.

There’s a delicate balance between providing structure and allowing children to express their individuality. While children need the guidance of school, home life, church, and extracurricular activities, they also crave independence. They need their creative interests nurtured and celebrated.

My Personal Journey: Interests Devalued

As a child, I was fascinated by spiritual books. Unfortunately, it was sometimes not encouraged. Looking back, I see how that passion sparked my curiosity about the spiritual world. As an adult, I have cultivated my love for spiritual knowledge. But what if my interests had been encouraged as a child?

Please be mindful of your words when speaking to a child. Sometimes, those words stick for a lifetime.

Every Child Wants to Feel Powerful

The most crucial aspect of this journey is encouraging our youth to embrace who they are. Celebrating their unique traits and reminding them of their inner strength won’t cause harm. Instead, it sends a powerful message: They are valued, and their inner, God, given light is beautiful. Every child yearns to feel this way. Yes, every single child!

My Unexpected Path to Teaching

Who would have thought that I, someone who disliked school, would become a teacher? Not me! When my mom bought me dolls, I lined them up like a classroom and played "teacher." I didn’t even realize what I was doing at the time. I wasn't fond of teachers, so why would I pretend to be one? Looking back, I can see that it was preparing me for my future career.

Recognizing Your Child's Personal Power

The next time your child brings up a topic that seems irrelevant, pay attention. That seemingly trivial interest could lead to something amazing. When your child expresses his/her individuality, celebrate it! Allow your child to shine with hope and light.

The Importance of Encouragement

Encouragement is vital in nurturing our children's growth. When we support their passions, we help them build confidence. This confidence will serve them well throughout their lives. It’s essential to create an environment where they feel safe to explore their interests without fear of judgment.

Building a Supportive Environment

Creating a nurturing space for our children involves listening to them. Ask questions about their interests. What do they love? What excites them? Show genuine curiosity. This simple act can make them feel valued. It tells them that their thoughts and feelings matter.

The Role of Community

Community plays a significant role in shaping our children. Surround them with supportive friends, mentors, and family members who celebrate their uniqueness. Encourage them to join groups or clubs that align with their interests. This will help them find like-minded individuals who appreciate them for who they are.

Embracing Differences

Let’s embrace the differences in our children. Each child is a unique puzzle piece in the grand picture of life, God's craftsmanship. When we celebrate these differences, we foster a sense of belonging. This sense of belonging is crucial for their emotional well-being.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

In conclusion, let’s commit to encouraging our children to be their true selves. Let’s celebrate their uniqueness and encourage them to shine. Together, we can create a world where every child feels valued and loved. Remember, their journey is just beginning, and we have the privilege of guiding them along the way.

Deborah Ann Minke, M.A., B.Ed., OCT, CH-C

Energize and Rise LLC

https://www.energizeandrise.com

(I write my own blogs :)