Nurture Your Child’s Talents
How do I nurture my child’s talents? As parents it is our job to and discover and nurture our child’s talents. An activity that engages one child may quickly bore another child. If you have more than one child you most likely have already witnessed this. We must find the time to discover and identify what makes each child unique and foster what make them special. Also remember, the best way to lead is by example.
What if I don’t know my child’s talents? Sometimes it may be hard to identify our child’s talents especially when they are young. This doesn’t make you less of a parent. By offering different types of activities or observing what toys, games and activities are your child’s favorite you can begin to identify what their strengths and talents may be. If you need some ideas, read How to Discover Your Child’s Talents. We offer tips and free resources that take you step by step through the process of discovering and developing your child’s gifts so that you can nurture your child’s talents.
Honoring God with Our Talents
We must remind our children that everything that we say and do is to give God glory. Even in using our talents, we can serve the Lord.
“And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”
Colossians 3:17
Here are some ways you can nurture your child’s God-given talents.
Provide resources that cultivate interest.
Have things at home that encourage imagination and learning. Art supplies, a musical instruments, books, or good sporting equipment to name a few. Your child will experiment and you see what they enjoy and excel at as they pick up the things that interest them the most.
Do activities.
Allow your child to do structured activities such as sports, dance or take an art class. If they try and activity and learn that they are no longer interested or not good at, have them commit to finishing the season. This teaches them follow-through, and they may actually begin to enjoy it. Some things take time.
Ask the gift Giver.
Pray and seek God’s counsel. He is the giver of gifts. Ask God to show you and your child their talents, and pray for Him to grow the talents. Show them how to use their talents to serve God.
Teach appreciation for each other’s gifts.
Appreciating others’ strengths, rather than competing with them helps prevent your child from being discouraged if they can not preform at the same level. It will also encourage them to appreciate the gift they have and strive to grow that gift rather than grow another child’s gift.
Be patient.
Be patient with your child and the growing gift. It takes time for talents to grow. Be there for your child especially when they are struggling or get discouraged.
Be supportive.
Encourage your child in their talents. Go to their games or concerts, compliment their artwork. Praise their effort and not their ability. Let them express themselves, it is truly a beautiful thing when they find what makes them soar.
Appreciate your children, encourage them with your words and actions. Remind them how much you love to watch them play, or draw, or encourage a friend. This will help nurture their gifts because every child wants their parents approval. Last tip, enjoy every moment because they go by so fast!
Leave a Reply