The Temperaments:Life Lessons
Undertanding a little about temperaments is certainly important. Of course, just by observing one's child, a parent can discern a direction in discipline. But actually knowing the youngster's inborn tendencies open one's eyes, offering assurance and peace. "Errors should be reasons for growth, not excuses for discouragement." Miller When all or most of our children were at home, we always had a major house cleaning day one Saturday morning a month. Each youngster had assignments and was expected to have them completed within an hour or two after the project began. Now, two of our family members are basically melancholic. When I would check the progress of the chores, one youngster would consistently and firmly state, "I'm a thinker, not a worker." I thought he was joking. No.....He was serious, not sarcastic or flip, just matter-of-fact. You can imagine how well that went over!! After fiddling and dawdling, at long last, he did do his jobs, so I really didn't think too much of it. But I was puzzled. Only after learning a little about the four temperaments did I understand that the boy was actually making a true statement! It didn't change that fact that he still had to do his work, but with this new understanding, I handled such situations with more empathy and gentleness. Today, he still reminds me that he was right! and we share a hearty laugh. Another lesson learned the hard way...and it changed my life. I can't remember the exact circumstances, but all of the children were in trouble. I was busy scolding and the decibel level kept rising. Because I was so involved in my own words, I wasn't really paying attention to the little ones. When I finally wound down, I realized those with the sanguine temperament were listening but not all that affected. Then I glanced at a child who is of melancholic temperament. His tiny face had crumpled. He looked stricken. The hurt was painfully obvious. I had no idea how sensitive he was to correction. Right then and there, I vowed to never, ever yell, never be harsh or rough in any way. From now on, I would talk...explain...guide with kindness...work diligently with each child to learn life's lessons. Hopefully, information about the temperaments will be of lasting value to you and your family. Knowledge and understanding are the keys to happy discipline, effective training and a delightful
childhood.
Importance of the Four Temperaments Return to Home
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