List things that your child knows about or has experienced

Think about all the places your son or daughter has been. Think about all of the experiences he has had. List these in a notebook that you keep about supporting your child. Which experiences did he seek out on his own? Which ones does he enjoy, even if someone else chose to involve him in the activity? What does he know a lot about? Do his grandparents speak a language other than the one your child speaks? Thinking about both interests and experiences – what do you think your child would like to become an expert in? (Even if it's something that doesn't appear to be mainstream or something you value. For example, he or she may be highly interested a popular set of cards that some children like to collect, or perhaps he is into video games, or skateboarding.) Are there any magazines or books that support this interest? Acknowledging your child's interests keeps the communication lines open for future conflict resolution and tells your child that you respect his or her individuality.