Tip #2: Mind-Minded Comments
- Mind-minded comments are ones that let your child hear words that describe his own thinking or feelings - or somebody else’s.
- For example:
- “I wonder what you’re thinking?"
- "You sure look like you feel happy today.”
- “Do you remember this toy? You enjoyed playing with it yesterday.”
- “I’m feeling tired. Are you feeling tired, too?”
- “I have an idea! Let’s go outside for a walk!”
- “I’m thinking.....Do I want milk? Or do I want juice? I’m trying to decide....”
- No matter the age of your child, getting into the habit of using these kinds of comments is a powerful strategy.
- Using comments like these ones often with your child can help him to develop a strong theory of mind.
- Theory of mind is the ability to understand his own and others’ points of view.
Tip #2: The Bottom Line:
Use words often to describe how you, your child, and other people are thinking and feeling. Words like: think, wonder, idea, decide, feel, wish, enjoy, and remember are great ones to include in conversations with your child! They help your child understand that everyone has their own thoughts and feelings.