B!Character strength: Optimism

Guidelines for parents of 1rst and 2nd year of Primary School - January Character Strength

GOAL SLOGAN: IF I PUT MY MIND TO IT, I CAN DO IT

SOME THINGS TO THINK ABOUT

The questions below are designed to help you think about how you can help from home   with the skills development programme your child is taking part in.

  1. Is it important for us to ensure that we remain open and friendly at home?
  2. When facing a problem or a contradictory situation, am I able to see the positive side of the situation? What strategies do I have to stay calm?
  3. When I become irritated with others due to their comments or an unfriendly action, whether with family or friends, what is my reaction? What do I do to keep calm or to calm back down? 

HOW CAN WE HELP?

The suggestions below show when personal parental involvement is necessary. The aim of the subjects proposed is to demonstrate where you might be able to support your child and help him to work on developing this month’s skill.

  1. When confronted with the pessimism of a child who believes that he cannot face up to a problem, remind him of those moments where he had a similar problem. For example: “The last time you came out of the situation on top, if you put your mind to it you are sure to achieve it.”
  2. Faced with those tasks that are difficult for him to do alone, work with him and work through things together. For example: “Wow! This looks a bit tough! Come on, let’s do it together, it’ll be easier! “
  3. Try to emphasize something positive that you liked about it or at least let him hear a positive comment from either parent about him. For example: “You should have seen how good his homework was.”
  4. Express emotions with words when faced with a child’s demonstrations of affection. For example: “I was angry when I came home from work today and when you came up running to give me a kiss, I felt a lot better.”
Other strengths:

Management of the environment

Open mindedness

Justice

Sobriety

Courage

Leadership

Citizenship

Personal dimension

Interior

Study

Creativity

Optimism

Ideals

Tidiness

Responsability

Prudence

Outdoor

Strength

Self-esteem

Integrity

Eagerness to learn

Gratitude

Openness to others

Interpersonal dimension

Communication

Friendship

Perseverance

Cooperation

Honesty

Generosity