How persistent is your child? Is she willing to wait to have her needs met? Does he insist on getting things now? Does your child quickly give up and move on when a task is difficult? Does she react strongly when interrupted?
Persistent
Persistence can be both a positive and a negative trait. The child who works on a difficult puzzle is labeled patient, yet if they refuse tostop working when asked they are labeled as stubborn.
Recognizing this trait will save you, as a parent, a lot of grief. When your child starts a task they will want to complete it. Make sure that enough time is set aside for them to accomplish their task. If not suggest they wait until later, or explain that they will have to stop in the middle.
The persistent child is more likely to set and reach goals. They will work at tasks until they conquer them. They will often be the child who sets high standards for himself. You will have to make sure that he does not take on too much and that he do not set his standards too high. They often will not ask for help even when a task is too hard. As a parent you will have to volunteer your help.
The persistent child will demand things now. They will not want to wait. They will need to be taught patience. If your child wants something and you are busy, set a timer and explain that you will help them when it rings. Then make sure you do.
Not Persistent
The child who is not persistent will be willing to wait. When you say, “Just a minute,” she will not complain. As a parent you will need to make sure that you do meet her needs because she will easily give up if you don’t respond.
Accomplishing goals is difficult because they are not as determined to see the end result. They will need more pushing to accomplish tasks. It might help to break tasks up. Instead of saying, “Go clean your room.” Tell your child to make their bed, and then when that task is done, ask them to clean up their toys.
Children who are not as persistent may look to others for help when a task seems too difficult. This often results in stronger social skills.
For more information about other personality traits read my blog “The 9 Temperamental Traits”.