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Children need definite training for the many functions of living. Naturally, the child will pick up much knowledge through observation. But we can’t depend on her learning everything this way. She needs training on how to dress, tie her shoes, how to wash and bathe, how to cross the street, and, gradually, as she grows older, how to perform tasks around the home.
These can’t be learned by incidental remarks nor through scolding or threat of punishment at the time when these tasks must be done. Time for training should be a part of the daily routine.
Set aside time: If we fail to take time for training we will spend a great deal more time correcting the untrained child. Constant corrections fail to “teach” because they are criticism and as such discourage and provoke the child. As a consequence of the conflict, the child becomes determined not to learn. Besides, the so-called “corrections” often misfire because children regard them as a means of getting special attention, and they love to provoke repetitions.
Don't seize the moment: The undiscouraged child displays interest in doing things. Alert parents recognise such attempts and encourage them. However, definite periods should be set aside for such experiences. The morning rush hour is scarcely the time to teach a child how to tie her shoes. The pressure of the moment only produces impatience in the mother and rebellion in the child. Afternoon playtime is usually an ideal time for training in a new skill, which can be part of a game.
Practice, practice: Training in any skill should be taken up in a repeated routine until the particular skill is mastered. Each skill should be learned separately. Patience, confidence in the child’s ability to learn, encouraging phrases such as, “Try again-you’ll get it.”
Make it fun: A pleasant, happy atmosphere, and acknowledgement of an accomplishment make the learning process a joy to both child and parent. It’s also wise to provide children with training in and understanding about unpleasant contingencies.
Teach each child: As the family grows, the training of the younger children may easily be neglected. The older children may do for the younger ones what they should be doing for themselves. This needs to be watched, since the older child may use this opportunity to establish her own superiority over the baby. Each child deserves her training period, which leads to a sense of personal accomplishment and skill.
Make it private: Training should not be attempted when guests are present or the family is out in public. In such circumstances the child acts as she is accustomed to act. If a parent wishes a child to behave in public, she will have to train her at home. If her behaviour is off, the only practical solution is to remove her quiet.
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