Understanding Your Child Through The Lens Of Temperaments
As a parent, one of the most impactful gifts you can offer your child is understanding—especially when it comes to their temperament. Rooted in innate traits, a child’s temperament shapes how they perceive, respond to, and interact with the world. Drawing on the relatable metaphors of colours and trees, as developed by Lynette Beer and Hettie Britz, this article unpacks the four core temperaments—Sanguine, Choleric, Phlegmatic, and Melancholic—and explains how recognising these traits can transform your parenting approach. From improving communication and reducing conflict to strengthening emotional support and nurturing individual strengths, understanding your child’s temperament is a powerful key to fostering deeper connection and resilience.