Training Your Child to Visualize
Some people have a natural ability to visualize; some people don't. Visualization is the ability to picture something in your mind. For example, you may be able to visualize a warm, sunny beach on a cold, blistery day. The ability to visualize is important because it comes in handy at school. For example:
1. When memorizing geography, the child can close his eyes to see the map.
2. When trying a new sport, the child can visualize the bat hitting the ball.
3. When trying to get along with the class bully, the child can visualize a way to get the bully's attention off of him, and then follow through.
4. Most importantly, when studying, the child can focus his mind on the task ahead of him instead of being distracted by noises and sights.
Being able to visualize involves a level of mental self-control, something that needs to be taught to most children. First, work on it yourself, and then practice it with your child. Some of these steps may help.
• Before bed at night is a great time to visualize. Not only is it a relaxed time when the child should be doing nothing else, but it also helps the child fall asleep.
• Put a comfy chair near your child's bedside so you can sit beside him for five or ten minutes talking.
• Talk about fun things you thought about as a kid. What would it be like to float in space? What would you do with a million dollars? These are great "Visualization Ideas".
• At first, just talk with your child-he may or may not continue the thought as he falls asleep.
• After a few weeks of giving your child visualization ideas, start giving your child ideas that need to be finished. For example, ask "What would you do if you were the king of your own island?" but kiss your child goodnight before the idea is talked out. This will encourage your child to continue the thought.
• At some point you may want to teach your child the specifics of visualization. "Close your eyes. What do you see? Try visualizing your dog. What color is his hair? Is it soft or rough? What do his eyes look like?" Get specific: details, details.
• When you practice visualizing specific objects, start with the most familiar objects. Gradually give your child ideas that are more and more fanciful. For example: "Try visualizing a friendly alien. What does it look like?"
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