While it might come across as they just don’t like doing what they’re told, that’s not entirely the case. When strong-willed kids are doing something, they are giving it their all. They’re focused, driven, and passionate about whatever they’re working on, which makes it harder to just stop a project halfway through.
They exhaust you in arguments.
Sometimes you wish that you had their energy (how is it possible to keep arguing for that long?!), but other times you wish they would just drop it and move on. The answer “because I said so” just isn’t going to fly with these kids and their continued questioning is for a reason. They’re not just giving you attitude, they’re giving you the facts — or at least what they believe them to be. Meet their determination with admiration and watch how much they bloom.
They don’t necessarily care what you think.
You think they should wear clothes that match? That’s cool. You think they should join the same activities as the kids in the neighborhood? That’s a nice thought. Strong-willed children are going to do it their way (no matter what your opinion is), and you should let them. These children are less likely to be swayed by peer pressure because they are self-motivated and only do things because they believe in them, not just for the sake of doing them.
They have a firm sense of right and wrong.
Because these children only want to do things that they agree with, they’re not afraid to put up a fight for the things they believe in. Nothing can be accomplished without spunk and it’s this conviction that leads to successful adults.
They are obstinate and particular.
So what if they’re only willing to wear dresses (that pass the twirl test!) every single day? This passion and attention to detail is because they have high standards. While all of their stances aren’t practical, you shouldn’t always make them bend their beliefs or accept less from others.
They like to test the limits.
No, your child isn’t just trying to drive you crazy and no, you’re not speaking a different language. Your child is fiery and being spirited isn’t the same thing as being disobedient. They crave adventure and exploring for themselves, not just passively sitting back and letting the world go by.
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