A man once gave his son a stick. The son looked at his dad, perplexed, and said “What is this supposed to be?” The dad responded, “Anything you want it be.” The purpose was to encourage his son to use his imagination. The same concept can be applied when you give your child a wrist watch. The temptation these days is to give your child a cell phone as soon as they are able to read. However, a valid argument can be made that a watch is a more valuable learning tool than a cell phone or other high-tech gadget.
Importance of Being On Time
The obvious association with a watch is time. Time management is a concept that is usually best learned at a young age. As your child gets older, it will become more and more important to be on time for everything from work to a date with that special someone. Start your child off with a simple watch. Tell them that if they are on time for things like bedtime, m
eals and school, they can earn the right to have a better watch. Ultimately, they will get into the habit of being on time. A habit that will serve them well throughout the rest of their life.
Learning Responsibility
Responsibility is more than just making promises. It is doing what you say you are going to do when you say you will do it. It is very easy for children to get distracted, especially with the Internet and video games. Take the time to explain the significance of giving your a child watch. Explain to them that there are certain responsibilities associated with having a watch. Start with small goals, such as getting up for school on time. Increase the expectations and responsibilities as the child gets older. Eventually, being on time for appointments and other responsibilities will become a habit — a good life lesson for anyone to learn.
Choosing a Watch
A child doesn’t need a luxury watch. Let your child pick out the watch, within reason. Odds are, they will select one that is fun, possibly a picture watch with a cartoon character. Versions of these watches can be found that also have the safety features mentioned before. A more expensive watch could be a gift for graduation or another special day in your child’s life, but should not be their first watch. Customize your child’s watch with some design touches they choose themselves. They are likely to be more inclined to take care of it if it means something to them. As they get older, they will come to realize the value of those personal touches. A special inscription can provide an extra shot of confidence and pride.
Author Tanya Peterson resides in NYC and is a content contributor for watchrepairny.com, a Manhattan provider of fine watch repair services since 1978. Tanya’s grandfather was in the antique watch business and it’s been a fascination with her since childhood.
