Do children need NLP?

We all know that this generation will change the world substantially. But it's also our responsibility as adults to create the right learning opportunities for them that push them out of their comfort zone and help them reach their potential.

If you are a parent interested in education, or simply a curious parent, you have definitely heard of NLP, this new topic of children's workshops.

Well, the topic is not exactly new, there has been a whole debate around this concept for the last several decades, with NLP becoming more and more appreciated for its long-term effects on human thinking.

But what is NLP anyway? NLP is the study of how humans work, understanding the mechanisms of thought and using them practically in everyday life. The abbreviation NLP (neuro-linguistic programming) is explained as follows:

• N = Neurology: How the mind works and how we think to become exponential in the environment we live in
• L = linguistics: How we use language to develop self-confidence and inspire confidence, manage our moods and those around us
• P = programming: How we order our actions and thoughts to generate exceptional results

Now I'm sure the potential benefits of participating in a neuro-linguistic programming module could be much clearer for your child. Of these, I will detail 3 that I consider essential:

• Effective communication. In today's day and age, when communication is the key to any kind of progress, it is important for every child to know the components of communication and the messages received from those around them. It is necessary for each child to communicate in an authentic way what he feels, what he believes and what sets him apart from others.
• Although human relations have changed fundamentally in the last year, empathy has remained an essential center. Being able to understand what the person next to you is going through and take a stand to help them is a characteristic of an emotionally balanced child.
• Understanding the consequences. Ecology is the action by which we protect nature and respond to its needs. In NLP, ecology is the action by which we protect ourselves and make decisions based on the consequences that decision has on ourselves or those around us.

NLP courses are taught by qualified experts following long-term practical and theoretical training. However, there are some exercises you can apply today with your child to help him think more clearly and communicate more easily with those around him.

• Are there times when you don't know what decision to make? Or do you feel like he's making decisions that don't help him in the long run? Next time, sit down together for a discussion and start from the following 2 key questions: What are the pros and cons for me? and What are the advantages and disadvantages for those around me? If it helps, you can write down all the answers on paper and thus you will guide an "ecological" decision for your child.
• Does he get nervous before a school presentation? Help him integrate elements from all sensory systems (auditory, gustatory, visual, olfactory, kinesthetic) into the presentation. That way, he will capture the attention of all his colleagues and have a memorable presentation.
• When meeting someone, do you hesitate when describing yourself? Do you feel like he doesn't know himself well enough? Create a poster together with his drawing in the middle and his current strengths and weaknesses. Don't forget to repeat this exercise in a few months, you will be amazed at how much has changed!

In the end, I hope I have convinced you that NLP is a very promising subject that will forever transform the way your child thinks and positions himself towards others.

I am waiting for you at the next NLP module from Ken Academy, more details here: https://kenacademy.org/ken-nlp-for-success/.

*Article written by Smaranda Vlad, KEN Academy trainer.