No matter the situation, nearly every child will experience jealousy at one time or another in their lives. Sometimes it’s sibling jealousy, others its jealousy of their friends or peers.
No matter the reason for the jealousy, it’s important to note that jealousy is an extremely normal emotion. However, if your children are constantly and consistently comparing themselves to others, there is a chance they can be easily swayed by their peers or others around them.
Helping your child deal with and overcome their jealousy can help them to have a more positive outlook on life and get along better with others.
HELPING KIDS DEAL WITH AND OVERCOME JEALOUSY
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POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT
Tell your child what is special about them without using comparisons to other children in their lives. Instead of using wording such as: “You’re great at x and your brother is great at y”, focus solely on what they themselves bring to the table.
STOP NEGATIVE SELF TALK
If you find your child engaging in negative self-talk, put a stop to it immediately. This is the perfect time to offer positive reinforcement and bolster their strengths. The negative self-talk only chips away at their self-confidence.
FOSTER A GRATEFUL ATTITUDE
Have your children focus on what they are grateful for in their lives. This is a very positive action to take and allows your children to realize that they shouldn’t be jealous of anyone because they have a lot to be thankful for themselves.
TEACH BY EXAMPLE
It is easy to find yourself being jealous of what others have. Your children can easily pick up on that. Make sure you aren’t expressing your jealousy in front of them or comparing yourself to others. It is important that you change your thinking and stop the negative self-talk as well. Participate with your children in expressing what you are grateful for and move on to live a more positive life.
Books are a great way to connect with your child when there is a life lesson to be learned. Try reading What to Do When It’s Not Fair: A Kid’s Guide to Handling Envy and Jealousy together to see what you and your child can learn!
Chances are if you are a jealous person, or are constantly comparing yourself to others, your children will too. Focus well on your behavior and remember to encourage positivity and remind your children that they are unique and amazing!
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