Temperament

Temperament is the way a child reacts to other people and his/her environment. A child's temperament can be described according to different characteristics:

• Level of activity

• Intensity of emotions

• The ability to tolerate frustration

• Sensitivity and reactions to new people and situations

Children are born with certain temperaments or profiles of these characteristics, but they are also able to change their behaviors--for instance, a child can learn how to become more open to new experiences or less intense in their emotional reactions. Sensitive, responsive interactions with trusted, caring adults shape our children's experiences of the world. There is no right or wrong temperament, however, many parents will find certain temperaments easier to cope with than others. Additionally, most parents will have an easier time accepting some of their child's characteristics than others. Sometimes our children's temperamental characteristics remind us of parts of ourselves that we wish we could change (being shy in social situations, for example).

As parents, we want to help strengthen and support our children's temperamental characteristics. Being aware of our own biases and cultural values towards our children's behaviors can help us be more sensitive and accepting. Parents can feel empowered by educating others on how best to support their children. Some children need more time to adjust to new situations and new people. Others feel easily overwhelmed by too much sensory stimulation. Understanding your child's temperament can help you parent better--anticipating when your child will need extra support and guidance can make transitions go more smoothly.