Be careful what "labels" you place on your child

MOST parents label their kids from time to time. “Clio’s clever, Rory’s a rebel, Jack’s a joker,” we say. We know we shouldn’t — that as unique individuals they’re more than any single aspect of their personality or behaviour. But still we do it — to their detriment and ours.

There’s nothing random about the labels we choose. We tend to hone in on the traits which most reflect our wishes or fears for them and label accordingly.

“Childhood labels form part of core beliefs, stick with us into adulthood and become part of our identity,” says psychologist and cognitive behavioural therapist, Dr Joanne Cooper.