Me, Me, Me!
Here's What To Do
1
I learn to feel important from the way others treat me. Tell me that you love me for who I am and all the ways you appreciate me.
2
Help me develop a strong sense of "mine." Set up special spaces in our home just for me and help me protect my belongings from other children. You can even put my picture on things to declare them as "mine."
3
Ask questions that encourage me to say "me" or my own name.
4
Ask me questions about things I like and dislike.
Put PEER Into Action
P
Pause:
- Smile at me and tell me something you love about me.
E
Engage:
- "What is your favorite animal? What is your favorite thing to eat? (etc.)"
- "This blanket is yours, Olivia, you can have it all to yourself. This blanket is mine, but I'm going to share it with your brother so he can have one to play with."
E
Encourage:
- Remember that at this age it is normal for me to think the world should revolve around me and my needs. This is a sign that I feel important and feel good about myself.
- Encourage me to say "me" or my own name by asking questions like "Whose pants are these?," "Who wants to play?," or "Who's in that mirror?"
R
Reflect:
- Do you think I feel important? Do I seem to have a good sense of my own identity?
As your child grows...
They will feel important and have a stronger sense of self. They will begin to understand what makes them similar to and different from other people.