Some children are just more ‘intense.’ They don’t have the signs of someone who has ADHD (they don’t have problems concentrating or sitting still) but parents notice that when they’re active, they’re very active—and a tantrum can easily spiral into apocalyptic proportions. However, they’re also very curious, adventurous, and passionate. Find out more about your spirited child in this article.
Behaviors of a spirited child
Spirited children are easily distracted because they become focused on something that interests them. They also tend to want to try things themselves, and are quite adventurous and curious. They have more energy than other kids and need positive outlets or they’ll become disruptive and overly restless. They are also more persistent, and have a high capacity to focus on a goal. They are sensitive and can react badly to harsh criticism, so choose words carefully and watch your tone.
Discipline goals for a spirited child
Spirited kids usually tend to have IQs and their innate energy levels and joie de vivre can make them very successful. However, they’re also more prone to addictive behaviors, and breaking a bad habit can involve intense emotional meltdowns and power struggles.
As parents, our role is to build good habits early on (through routines, and clear and consistent rules) and to nip bad habits in the bud. However, the key to motivating a spirited child is to help him find his talents early on in life, and then channeling them. They are naturally persistent and if they find something they love they will keep at it until they hone their abilities. Having hobbies and interests will also help prevent them from falling into a bad crowd, or taking up a bad habit (like smoking or playing video games) out of boredom.
That’s why it’s important to introduce spirited children to a wide range of activities. Sign them up for different sports, teach them arts and crafts, teach a love for music and reading (which will broaden their horizons while developing log, n concentration and discipline—to balance out the spirited child’s tendency to be carried away by emotions).
It’s also important to develop healthy communication channels with your spirited child. Do remember that your spirited child can be oversensitive to criticism and can easily get distracted during long conversations. They also have a tendency to feel invincible and make impulsive choices. That’s why it’s important to guide your child, through ‘everyday teaching’ moments instead of long lectures, and to develop their ability to think first, and act second. Daily conversations and bonding rituals can reinforce this message and give you many opportunities to tell your child what’s right and what’s wrong.
I have taught many “spirited” children. They can be natural leaders if their energy is properly channeled and if they are motivated.