The Malaysian astronaut reveals his parenting tips for those who have children and do not know what to do through his Instagram account.
Dr Sheikh Muszaphar may be going for the Father of the Year award in 2022 upon sharing some words of wisdom and encouragement regarding his parenting journey.
He has been married to Dr Halina Mohd Yunos since 10th October 2010. Together, they have been blessed with six children, with the latest addition being a set of twins in 2020.
The renowned astronaut and orthopaedic surgeon constantly talks and answers his followers’ questions on parenting tips. And we have compiled some of the best ones for you:
#1 Repeatedly Tell Your Children You Love Them
It may sound like a simple thing to do, but try saying ‘I love you’ to your children at least 10 times a day to make them feel loved and appreciated. Remember, even the smallest gesture can make a huge difference. Hugs and kisses are good ways to tell our children we love them, and to teach them about loving each other.
Dr Sheikh’s ‘I Love You’ Video:
#2 Don’t Waste Your Children’s Time
According to Dr Sheikh, your children’s time should be filled with important purposes and necessities only such as education and learning experiences. Make them excited about learning and going to school.
#3 Start Them Young, From As Early as Age 0 to 6 Years Old
In this phase, children are developing and the potential of knowledge being imparted easily enters the child’s mind and it becomes permanent. Start educating them at a young age.
#4 Constantly Shower Words of Encouragement to Your Child
If you encounter your child feeling down and lazy, try encouraging them instead of scolding them. Even better, if you try to talk to them and let them open up to you.
#5 Make Them Love Following Rules
When educating and teaching the children, make them follow the rules with love instead of being pressured. Additional tip? You can reward your children occasionally if they follow the rules correctly. If they ever feel pressured to follow the rules, you can always reschedule it.
#6 Expose Your Child to a Variety of Activities
Constantly expose them to interesting activities such as playing flashcards, horseback riding, charity events, learning how to swim or playing musical instruments. You can also get them to fall in love with arts through sketching and painting.
Let the children explore and play in nurture as well as nature. These kinds of activities can be very useful for the children in the long run. Children are rarely tired and are always active, so it is best to fill their time with useful activities.
Dr Sheikh’s ‘Flashcard Activity’ Video:
Dr Sheikh’s ‘Sunday Art Craft Activity:
#7 Set a Daily Routine and Them Fall in Love With It
Children tend to like the same routine every day, so set a different routine for your children on a daily basis. This will help them learn to be more disciplined and punctual. It also gives them an indication of being respected from an early age.
#8 Never Say ‘No’
Avoid the word ‘No’ or from saying it to your child—replace it with ‘Why’ instead. If they are being refrained from saying or doing something with proper explanations, they will understand and be more receptive. This will help enable them to have a normal yet memorable upbringing and childhood.
Dr Sheikh’s ‘Try To Avoid the Word “No”‘ Video:
#9 Communicate With Them Every Day
When talking to children, make sure there is proper eye contact. Tell them that whatever they say is important to you. And in return, they will understand and feel what we say is important as well.
#10 Get To Know Their Language
Whether you want to teach and converse with your child in Bahasa Malaysia, English, or any of our various mother tongues, make sure you provide them with enough materials to learn. The easiest way is through speaking with them, and getting them to read books. Reading books can enhance children’s sense of creativity and imagination through the power of literature.
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