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Freedom of Speech?
Children Who Speak Their Minds
By Carma Haley
Methods that work for one parent in curbing outspoken behavior may not work well for another. Michelle Smith, the mother of an outspoken 7-year-old, says, "My daughter has been attempting to monopolize the conversation since she began to talk. I try to talk to her about the way that she treats people and we read books about being bossy. I ask her how her behavior is like the character in the book and she answers all my questions 'correctly' but does not change her behavior. It is a constant battle. I try to keep my patience and not break her spirit as I attempt to guide her along the path to politeness and do my best not to shame her."
"Parents must be careful not to stifle their child's voice," says Pieper. "Outspoken children may be offering a reflection of what we see and hear in today's society." These children may not be expressing what we want to hear, but outspoken children tend to be truthful with their comments, questions and answers. In addition, the trait of outspokenness should not be label as wrong. In some instances, the ability to speak -- and speak freely -- holds advantages all it's own.
"Outspokenness aids children in their ability to stand up for themselves, voice their choices and offer alternatives to things they do not agree with or feel right about doing or participating in," says Pieper. "For example, if a child is approached by someone who wants them to partake in inappropriate types of behavior, the child will be equipped with the skill to either voice their opinion about the situation or tell the other child how they truly feel about them and their behavior. In this situation, being outspoken is a benefit. However, if mom and dad are in financial trouble and junior decides to announce it at the family reunion, this behavior should be dealt with appropriately and immediately."