How we should talk to a kid

Grown-up people often commit the mistake of taking the mental health of children too lightly. We often laugh at them and say unkind things that may scar their hearts for a long time. Do you remember any harsh experiences that you encountered in your childhood? How did it affect your mental health back then? Did the experience shape your journey of being an adult? That is why we should be as gentle as possible when it comes to talking to a kid.

What not to say to a child with ADHD?

“You are stupid”, “You are good for nothing”,” Why can’t you be like other kids in your school?”. These harsh and unkind remarks often break the kids’ confidence and they tend to judge themselves as failures. Focus on the strength of the child rather than the weaknesses. Praise them and show the reason behind your praise. It will appreciate the child to do the praiseworthy tasks.

What not to say to a child with anxiety?

Try to avoid the phrases “Don’t worry”, and” You will be okay”. “It’s not a big deal”, “Hurry up!”.Instead of telling the child “ I don’t know what you need”, say “Can you tell me more about this?”.This question will make them believe that their feelings are valued by adults. Your child’s constant anxiety will harm their peer relationships and family relationships. Try to meditate with your child and offer them to have a deep discussion about their reason for worrying too much.

What not to say to a child with autism:

“Oh! You don’t look like an autistic child!”- is the most told phrase that a child having autism faces. Instead of comparing them with other autistic children, you may know, lift them amplifying the strengths they have. In one interview, an autism advocate said,” It is not something that I carry around in a bag with me. It’s something that makes me who I am and is an intrinsic part of my being,” We should not see autism as a problem to overcome, because it is not a problem and it’s not something that can be overcome.

What not to say to a grieving child:

Traumatic experiences, or the death of a family member, an accident, or serious injury these events can make a child grievous. Most of us don’t know how to approach them with compassion and kindness. Instead of telling them “ I know how you just feel”, ask them “How they are feeling” or ask them to tell us more about what this past week has been like for them after the tragedy happened, or How this tragedy affected them emotionally.

Remember that every child is unique, and it’s important to tailor your approach to their individual needs and personality. By showing patience, empathy, and understanding, you can create a positive and engaging conversation with a child.