by Willow Lissette

Created on: October 21, 2008   Last Updated: May 01, 2009

Children have wild imaginations and big dreams. It is important not to down play their dreams. When ever they come to you and say "When I grow up I want to be superman." Don't just laugh it off, encourage it, even if it is impossible. Some might say this will give your child unrealistic expectations when he's older. No really it won't, when he's older he will come to the realization that in fact he cannot become superman. Childhood dreams are important to your child's emotional and imaginative development.

Every time your child comes to you and says that he has an idea. Listen to them with your ears and heart. Give your input on it. Even if you don't think its the best idea in the world, encourage him. Kids change their minds all the time, in a few minutes they might even forget about their newest brain storm. Having a supportive parent will show the child no matter what he wants to do he can do it.

The sky is the limit when it comes to our kids. When they finally decide on what they want to be when they grow up, take the time and talk to them about it. Get them books on the subject. Take them places they will learn about the subject . (Example: If they choose to be a Veterinarian, take them to the zoo, get them books on different animals ect.) Show that you are truly interested in what they want to do with their lives by listening and encouraging them.

Let your child talk about it, even if the chatter never stops. Listen and respond to them. If something happens where they get frustrated with their dreams talk to them about it encourage them to never give up. If this is what they truly want then they will succeed. They need to know you support them and are with them every step of the way. They need to see you are interested in what they want to achieve.

Last but not least never give them negative input when it comes to their dreams. It can hurt them alot. They might start thinking why should i dream about this it will never happen or its not worth it. It can effect their self-esteem and make them have a lower self-worth. It is hard on a child when their parents are not interested in their big dreams. It can even go into the teenage years, they might get depressed or think, whats the point I can't do it anyway.

The bottom line is, be patient with them, encourage them, and believe in their dreams. When you encourage and support your child, it is unbelievable what they can accomplish.

Learn more about this author, Willow Lissette.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.