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How to handle your child’s first crush

3rd January 2018

With Valentine’s nearing, it’s time to consider your child’s first crush so you’re not caught off guard with questions about love or mention of this new person they’re infatuated with. This month our experienced team at Tiny World are here to help with some well researched and practised advice, so you and your little one can learn and grow together.

Signs of a first crush

A first crush isn’t something you should worry too much about, it’s natural for your child to develop feelings for another person; especially when they’re in new surroundings. Children look for someone they can confide and take comfort in whilst they’re away from you. Children like to make friends and sometimes, they might even begin to develop feelings for this special someone.

Signs of a first crush can vary from one child to another – your child might tell you straight away, they might question you about marriage and some might mention this new friend regularly. Some may be giggly and others quiet, so it really all depends on what your child is like from day-to-day but these signs generally correlate to a crush. If you do see any of these slight changes, they’re most likely experiencing their first crush.    

How do I handle my child’s first crush?

It’s healthy for your child to have feelings and to express them, so it’s important that you guide them through this.

Talk to them – remember your child probably wants to ask as many questions as you do. Let them know that you’re a friend as well as a parent, show them that they can confide in you. It’s likely that this crush will pass within a week or two, so be a good listener and they will share their important thoughts with you.

Create boundaries – it can be hard to see your little one grow up so fast and it can be a huge milestone for both you and your child when they experience a first crush. Explain to them what is and isn’t appropriate, let them know that it’s only ok for Mummies and Daddies to kiss but it’s alright to speak to their crushes, create Valentine’s cards and maybe even hold hands.

Don’t judge them – it’s easy to come out with your opinion whether it’s good or bad, but if you offer your thoughts such as, ‘they’re a troublemaker’ or ‘they’re cute’ you’re not helping them. Stay on a level playing field and simply ask them what’s on their mind. This might help them to put their thoughts in order. You could of course ask who this person is, what they like about them and if the crushee knows that your child likes them.

Don’t be overbearing, be aware – let this phrase fizzle out, a crush can last for a few days or maybe even weeks but just because your child has their eye on someone, doesn’t mean it’ll last for life. Only intervene if your child’s routine is interrupted by an overwhelming array of emotions. Listen to your gut, if you feel that it’s getting too much then speak to the school and your child.

Broken hearts can be fixedif your child is upset because of unrequited love, it can be painful to watch them deal with it. However, give them your time and a listening ear and together you can help them to overcome a broken heart.

 

It can be difficult to know what to do when it comes to experiences like these but it’s important to do the best for your child and guide them through the difficult process of feelings. At Tiny World Day Nurseries we offer a wealth of experience and years of knowledge in order to keep your children happy. We can be found around Nottingham and Mansfield on Stockhill Lane, Arnold Road and Layton Avenue. If you would like to know more about us or need advice – please feel free to get in touch today.

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