February 23, 2012

Interpreting Your Daughter’s Wish List

Your daughter’s wish list may include everything from the best dollhouses to the most elaborate children’s books. If she’s old enough to write, she might present her list in written form or simply call out what she wants while you’re driving in the car or tucking her into bed. Satisfying your child’s needs requires understanding her wishes and choosing the best toys and gifts for her development.

Understanding the Wish List

The first thing to do is interpret what your daughter really wants. She may see another child with a Barbie doll and want one just to fit in. This may be a passing wish or a desire that stays with her. When the desire is strong, she’ll likely state her wish repeatedly. Satisfying her wish on a special occasion by giving her a cherished doll and one of the best dollhouses will surely result in a gratitude-filled smile or hug.

Making Balanced Choices

When it comes to fulfilling children’s wishes, parents must often weigh a few factors. Giving a child everything she wants may not necessarily be good for her. For example, one slice of chocolate cake is harmless, but eating half a cake will likely cause a stomach-ache.

The act of discerning wishes and satisfying them can be useful for all involved. Children learn the art and joy of gift giving by receiving gifts. They feel overjoyed to receive their favorite items and learn to make others happy in the same way as they mature. Additionally, whether playing house or learning how to play a computer game, children can have a multitude of learning opportunities from these gifts.