Personality Development In Children!

Personality is developed through learning and is not the result of heredity. Early childhood is the critical period in its development. Before the child is ready for school the dominant characteristics of his personality are so well that they can be seen easily in his facial expression. Adults who assume the responsibility for the upbringing of a child should guide his development so that there will be a predominance of desirable personality traits.

Home influences in personality development

Similarities in personality between parent and child are the result of learning by imitation. Thus, the mother with a cheerful and happy outlook on life presents a desirable pattern of behaviour to her child. The father who comes home tired and irritable will not only present an undesirable pattern of behaviour but of even more seriousness. It is inevitable that, in time, these patterns will be reflected in the child's personality.

Desirable personality traits

1) cheerfulness
Good health, a cheerful atmosphere, and a minimum of frustration around the child helps in the cultivation of cheerfulness in him.

2) enthusiasm
A good way to foster enthusiasm in the child is to talk about, plan for, and anticipate with him simple experiences.

3) courage
An" all is well" attitude on the part of the parent when the child is hurt will help to build a courageous attitude in the child.

4) unselfishness
Being encouraged to share toys or to contribute to others will help to foster unselfishness in the early years.

5) self-confidence
Allowing children to do things for themselves and praising them for accomplishments of the smallest kind will build self-confidence.

6) self-assertiveness
The child should be allowed to express his opinions about different matters and be given a chance to make decisions about his likes or dislikes in order to encourage self-assertiveness.