1 of 24

Write now Article Tools

The parent is part of a child's life for many a years and during that time while the parent observes the child so does the child. The parent becomes the child's role model; the way the parent talks and behaves in front of others forms the basis on which the child begins to mould his own personality. It is at this growing stage that the parent can make a real difference to the child's confidence by encouraging the child and being there for him through all the different life situations that come his way.

The school environment brings its own set of problems and the child now faces a host of other influences that the parent does not have control over. I remember when my children would come home and give me details of what other children were doing at school and I would get worried and concerned how that would affect my own children. At that point I realised how important good communication is with the child, the main thing was that the child felt comfortable talking to me and it was my duty to listen and advise. Like any other relationship if the parent starts shouting at the child the moment he opens his mouth that will be the end of any further communication and he will never bother to come to you again.

Teachers can make a difference to a child in the school years by realising the areas in which the child excels and helping him to cope in areas that he is weak in. Good teachers are never forgotten and they help make the difficult school times easier to cope and handle. While parents plan for their child's education and their financial well being teachers make this dream become a reality and help the child to become an active contributing member of society. Whatever area of life you want to enrich in the child, you can only teach or educate if the communication channels between you are open to receive.

It is not just a parent but grandparents too who can make a real difference to a child's life. They are rich in life experiences and sometimes when parents are too busy working and trying to cope with financial pressures it is grandparents who provide that anchor in the child's life. They can give the child love, affection, stability and educate him with their experiences of life skills.

Foster parents are other people who can make a difference to a child who has not had a stable home. They will give the child values of family life and this can help the child grow up without feeling that he or she has missed out on life. There are many care workers and support workers who can also give children help, love and understanding backed by professional training.

The things that do make a difference to a child's life are having a stable family life, someone who will listen to them and help them make the changes that they need in their lives. In situations where it is sometimes easier to just give up on a child it takes real love and strength to listen beyond the tantrums and mood swings. To be there, to care and encourage a child are some of the things that will make that difference to a child's life and make him think he is worthwhile and so is the life that he leads. Teaching through action in all areas of life from saving money to instilling moral and spiritual values is also the role of any good parent so that strong foundations are laid for the child to build his character upon.

Learn more about this author, Shaheen Darr.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about How to make a difference in the life of a child?
We want to hear your view. Write now!