A new addition to the family can be met with wonder, anticipation and perhaps many questions. Who will this child of mine become? Will I know what to do, to take care of this precious little one? New life brings all kinds of questions for parents. Every new life is a unique creation full of individual traits. These traits are causes for celebration! Join The Science of Parenting team as they explore “temperament”.
What is temperament? Temperament can be described as the combination of mental, physical, and emotional traits of a person; or the natural predisposition someone possesses.
Parents, as first educators of their children, can support the temperament of their children in a variety of ways. A parent’s reaction to a child’s behaviors, will be the child’s first notion about appropriateness of their behaviors and responses. When we acknowledge that their temperament is a gift and is preparing them for all the many joys and challenges they will face in their lifetime, we can then choose how we respond. We can respond with frustration if we are tired, overwhelmed, or upset. We can also respond with patience, calm, and reassurance so that our child knows that behaviors can be managed, and as parents we will be there to help them learn to manage their own behaviors.
Drop in on season three of the Science of Parenting Podcast as Lori and Mackenzie reveal there is no bad or good temperament. Each trait has assets and liabilities. Learning to understand, appreciate and work with the trait is what builds positive parenting opportunities.
In the episode and mentioned again in the 2nd episode of the season, a temperament measurement to be done at home is recommended. Where is this resource to be found?
Hello!
I study temperament and I’m trying to bring it to Brazil applying to parents and teachers…Would you know any online course training to psychologists that we may know and train in the field of temperament?
Here in Brazil, we have temperament in research area…but in the clinic and in school it’s not an open field yet!!
Would you have any training you might indicate?
Look forward to your answer!
Obrigada!
Thanks for your post! You may want to reach out to temperament.com and get on their listserve. They have a fabulous group of temperament researchers from all over the world!
We have listed the resources at temperament.com as well as preventiveoz.org