Love is the connecting force which allows a child to explore his potential. The most important gift parents can provide their children is unconditional love. You, as parents, have the responsibility to love your children. Parents, through their love, connect their family through support and encouragement.
Gifted children need to know that they are valued and loved for themselves. Too often parents put too much pressure on their gifted child. Parents tend to expect perfection. Learn to relax, realizing that although your child is capable of greatness, she is still a child who must be taught to expect failure and to learn from her mistakes. Parents, through unconditional love, must let their child know that they are proud of him and will always be ready to give him their support and encouragement.
Love in the home needs to be an "unconditional" kind of love, which conveys the message that, you do not have to be perfect; I love you with an "unconditional" love and not a "because" love which sends a message of misguided expectations. This message may be, I love you because you are so smart and get all A's. The kind of message a parent's love sends can be a determining factor on the emotional stability of a gifted child. Gifted children tend to be perfectionists and parents must balance support with the right kind of love. A gifted child needs to feel the assurance and security of your unconditional love.
Let you child know, through your love, that you expect her to do her best and prove to her that she doesn't always have to be the best! Remind him over and over that you love him. Show him, through example, that your love is a constant in his life.
Try to explain to your child that unconditional love does not have a price and doesn't have to be earned. Convey to her early in her life that you will always love her.
Try some love activities: Make a list of things you "love". Share lists. Categorize lists (living, non-living etc.).
Have a family love day! Every conversation between members of your family must begin with the words I love you!
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