- my iParenting
- quick clicks
- preschoolers today articles
- preschoolers today q&a
- children today articles
- children today q&a
- message boards
- research baby names
- prepare a birth plan
- content channels
- ip channel rss feeds
- read birth stories
- read parenting stories
- recommended books
- e-newsletters
- safety recalls
- ip diaries
- ip store
- mom of the month
- dad of the month
- editor's letter
- letters to the editor
 |
- e-newsletters
- Sign up to receive our free weekly e-newsletters
- award-winning products
The iParenting Media Awards program helps parents find the best products for their families.
Little Personalities
Can Parents Influence Personality Traits?
By Kendeyl Johansen
Gail Gross, Ph.D., expert on juvenile education and development issues and host of radio's "Let's Talk," says, "Let your child be who he is and support him while helping him experiment. Recent research on gene therapy links genetics to behavioral traits. Parents can become the ultimate gene therapist by 'turning on' certain genes." How does this work? The parents of a behaviorally shy child can organize a safe environment in which their child feels comfortable enough to reach out. The parent can touch their child's hand to ground her, show support by speaking calmly and staying close to show they're there if needed. Repeating this process provides a safe environment for experimentation. The child gains experience, forming positive associations. These associations stimulate learning and "turn on" genes linked to friendliness. "Behavioral concerns are an issue everywhere," says Kristin Johansen, a first grade teacher in Oslo, Norway. Johansen encounters shy, aggressive and perfectionist behavior daily from her 16 students. When behavior causes concern, she helps the kids. "If students act shy I call on them in class a lot when they know the answer. Hearing their name and answering correctly in front of classmates boosts self-confidence." Johansen also compliments students on accomplishments in front of peers. For instance, she might praise a drawing and hang it up for the class to admire.
When faced with aggressive behavior, Johansen displays compassion. "Children that act aggressively may have problems at home or with friends," she says. "I talk to them in a soft voice. I never answer aggression with aggression." She takes the child aside and tries to find out why they're angry. She builds empathy by saying, "How would you feel if Jon kicked you?" Usually the child admits they would feel bad and then returns to play harmoniously.
