Surprising Things Kids Notice Without You Knowing

Attention adults! Just because a child didn’t say anything doesn’t mean they didn’t notice. Children are much more observant than we think, taking note of everything around them. And it’s not just about what they hear: they also pick up on behaviors, reactions and attitudes.

Here’s where adults need to be more self-aware around children:

How you feel about your body

We’ve all had those moments where we complain about being overweight or having too much fat. But as adults, our body issues shouldn’t carry over into how children view themselves.

It’s heartbreaking to hear young children, especially girls, feel self-conscious about their bodies. Why would having big thighs or a little belly be important at their age?

Children absorb all the negativity that adults express about their own bodies. They learn what we consider attractive or acceptable based on societal norms.

I used to feel insecure about my weight and avoided being in family photos. But now I know better! Of course, I would love to lose a few pounds, but I’ve realized that it’s more important to show kids that a healthy body is worth being grateful for, even if it’s not perfect.

We need to teach them to move past body image issues and focus more on overall health and wellness.

Your attitude towards food

Children notice not only how we feel about our bodies, but also how we approach food. Our eating habits, whether healthy or indulgent, make a big impression on children. If you snack on junk food, but also skip meals and feel guilty after eating cake, that’s what your child will consider normal.

To help them develop a healthy relationship with food, we need to model a balanced diet, even when it comes to treats. Show them that moderation is key and they will grow up with better eating habits and a healthy relationship with food.

IMAGE: CANVA

How you treat your partner

It is said that the best gift parents can give their children is a happy, loving home. If you are lucky enough to have a supportive and respectful partner, your child will notice the way you treat them. It’s not just loud arguments that kids pick up on: They’re also watching your body language and small gestures, like frowns or eye rolls.

How you interact with your partner or close family members determines their behavior in relationships. And indirectly, your behavior will also influence how they feel about certain people in their life. If they see love and respect, they are more likely to feel safe, confident, connected and emotionally in tune with others.

Your lack of compassion for yourself

I learned (the hard way) that children reflect how we deal with mistakes, perfectionism, and self-criticism. If you are hard on yourself every time something goes wrong, your child is likely to do the same when faced with difficulties.

When adults lack self-compassion, children become critical and unforgiving of themselves. On the other hand, if they see that you take things at your own pace, are gentle with yourself, and stay positive, they will also learn to be kinder to themselves. They will learn courage, resilience and understand that mistakes are just opportunities to learn.

What you really value

I love telling my kids, “Do as I do, not as I say.” » Preaching won’t get you far when children are small, but older children (ages five and up) need more than just words. They want to see you “walk the talk, not just talk.”

If you say one thing but do another, children will notice the hypocrisy. Being honest and consistent in your actions will show them what you truly value. And I hope they develop their own value system as they grow.

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