Helping Children Use Their Imagination

Successful people picture themselves a winner before they get started. We can use this tip to help children. In a Reader's Digest Article, "Picture Yourself a Winner," Dra. Ira Sharlip, a surgeon describes his operations, "I visualize it step-by-step from initial incision to final suturing. If I encounter a hitch as I'm imagining it, I do more research to fill in the gap." Athletes agree that they visualize success. Jack Nicklaus imagine the perfect golf swing even before he steps on the green.

A child's mind has the capacity to build a system that programs models of behaviors even at an early age. We can program the mind to conceive of attaining a goal, be it an athletic or academic goal, or even good behavior. If your child is going to have an entrance exam in school, help him imagine the whole process as a game. Have him picture the two of you having an enjoyable trip to the school, entering the test center and greeting the teacher. Together, visualize the examination as a play with the satisfaction the child will have after he finishes the test. Finally, have the child imagine the happiness of meeting new friends at school.

Source: Mga Gintong Aral ng Buhay Radio Talk Series.
The Theosophical Society in the Philippines, 1 IBa St.,
corner Florentino St., Quezon City, PHilippines