#asktheexpert
Namaste! My daughter is 7.5 yrs old. She has become lazy and stubborn off late.
what can I do?

Question

#asktheexpert 
Namaste! My daughter is 7.5 yrs old. She has become lazy and stubborn off late. 
what can I do?

Accepted Answer

It's common for children to go through phases where they seem lazy or stubborn, especially as they grow and develop their personalities. Here are some strategies to address these behaviors and encourage more positive habits in your daughter:

1. Open Communication:

Talk to Her: Have a calm conversation with your daughter to understand her feelings. Ask her if there's anything bothering her or if she's feeling overwhelmed.

Listen Actively: Encourage her to express her thoughts and feelings, and validate her emotions. Sometimes, children act out due to stress or anxiety.

2. Set Clear Expectations:

Establish Routines: Create a daily routine that includes specific times for homework, chores, play, and relaxation. This helps children know what is expected of them.

Use Positive Reinforcement: Praise and reward her when she follows through with tasks or shows effort. This can motivate her to engage more actively.

3. Make Activities Fun:

Incorporate Play: Turn chores and responsibilities into games. For example, use a timer to see how quickly she can tidy up her room or create a fun challenge for completing homework.

Explore Interests: Engage her in activities she enjoys, whether it’s arts and crafts, sports, or outdoor adventures. This can help her regain enthusiasm.

4. Limit Screen Time:

Set Boundaries: Reduce the amount of time spent on screens (TV, tablets, video games) and encourage more physical play or creative activities.

Engage Together: Participate in activities with her, such as going for walks, playing games, or doing crafts together. This can motivate her to be more active.

5. Encourage Responsibility:

Assign Age-Appropriate Tasks: Give her small responsibilities at home, like helping with meal preparation, tidying her room, or organizing her belongings. This can foster a sense of accomplishment and ownership.

Involve Her in Decisions: Allow her to make choices regarding her tasks or activities. This can help her feel more in control and reduce stubbornness.

6. Physical Activity:

Encourage Movement: Engage her in physical activities that she enjoys, whether it’s dancing, riding a bike, or playing outside. Regular exercise can help boost her mood and energy levels.

Join Classes or Sports: Consider enrolling her in classes or sports teams where she can socialize and stay active.

7. Monitor Emotional Well-being:

Check for Changes: Keep an eye out for any changes in her mood or behavior that could indicate underlying issues, such as anxiety or stress.

Talk About Feelings: Encourage her to express her feelings and provide a safe space for her to share her thoughts.

8. Lead by Example:

Model Behavior: Demonstrate a positive attitude towards responsibilities and activities. Children often mimic the behavior of their parents.

Stay Active Together: Engage in family activities that promote an active lifestyle, such as hiking, biking, or playing sports.

Conclusion:

Addressing laziness and stubbornness in your daughter involves understanding her feelings, setting clear expectations, and creating a positive environment. By encouraging open communication, establishing routines, and making activities enjoyable, you can help her regain motivation and enthusiasm. If behaviors persist or worsen, consider consulting a child psychologist or counselor for additional support.

#asktheexpert Namaste! My daughter is 7.5 yrs old. She has become lazy and stubborn off late. what can I do?