As kids, we all experience peer pressure, but there are ways to combat it for your own children when they learn the signs and how to act when dealing with uncomfortable situations. Here’s some top advice from this independent school in Surrey with ways to help your child with pressure among friends.
Show them what peer pressure means
Your child may have heard of the term, but not necessarily how it happens in real life. Identify the signs of peer pressure they may face so they know what to look out for – it doesn’t necessarily just come from their friends.At a young age, children may be teased or picked on for what they wear or what things they enjoy, causing them to hide their interests from others. This is one of the first signs a child can be pressured into following others; show them that they have a choice in what they enjoy and shouldn’t be influenced by others.
Explain values to your child
If your child knows the difference between right and wrong, then they need to know about moral values. Show them what values you hold and why you believe them, but also show that there must always be balance.Key values children should grow to use include honesty, respect towards others, compassion and helpfulness. Model good behaviour and positive affirmations in front of your child so that they learn to use these skills in front of their peers.
Tell your child about the consequences
Succumbing to peer pressure will show a child what can happen. Friendships can fall apart, parents can be upset and teachers can also be concerned about a child’s progression. It can also be of detriment to a child’s progress in school and even overall grades.Children can be pressured in a number of ways, like being encouraged to bully somebody or trying alcohol, which has a lot of concern for parents. Show them that they may come to regret their choices if they do something that’s frowned upon or even illegal.
Teach your child confidence
A lot of important decisions by children are made because they’re confident enough to fight them. Give your child plenty of opportunities to talk openly in the home and in front of you, see what they enjoy and what they don’t enjoy – it’ll help you when you’re explaining the effects of peer pressure. Aim to not pass any judgement in their interests. Children that know they’re loved and appreciated for what they enjoy will significantly increase their self-esteem.
*This is a collaborative post*