The SJ Temperament Core.*
Children who share the
Sensing-Judging temperament are practical, are focused on what is real
and concrete and are more interested in what is happening now as opposed
to dreaming about the future. SJ children appreciate structure and
routines and are generally happiest when they know what to expect.
Although all children wish to be free to explore and play at will, SJ
children prefer to know the boundaries of what they can and cannot do.
Once rules and routines are clear to an SJ child, he or she is typically
more comfortable and cooperative. On the other hand, disorder and
unpredictability create stress and resistance in the SJ child, as do new
experiences in general. Oddly enough, once new experiences are familiar
and part of the regular routine, the SJ child often embraces them.
The term “worker bee” is a
great way to describe the growing SJ child. This child is usually busy
learning how to do things and focused on the real world around them. SJ
adults are typically hard-working and self-disciplined. As young SJ
children, you will likely notice a strong determination to persist when
learning something that interests them or completing a task.
Where Attention and Energy is
Focused for the SJ Child.
On What is Real and Tangible.
As Sensors, SJ children pay close attention to the physical world around
them. They seek to make sense of what they can touch, taste, hear, feel,
and see. SJ children then focus on learning how to play with, use, and
control that world. Having a strong preference for Judging, SJ children
will also want to finish what they start, from finger-painting projects
to bedtime routines. They are practical, hands-on learners, and
typically persist in learning and completing tasks. From learning how to
tie their shoes to a willingness to complete homework and chores, SJ
children are driven to get it done.
On Hows More than Whys.
SJ children want to learn how to do things and
work hard to do them well and correctly.
Although all children will ask questions about why
things are the way they are, Sensing children will spend much more time
learning how to do things than questioning and wondering why. As they
grow they are more likely to read and follow directions. As adults, SJs
rely heavily on their experience, as well as the experience of others,
for what works well and how to do things successfully. As children they
trust the knowledge and experience of those in authority—their parents,
teachers and coaches, and experts more generally. For example, when
playing tinker toys, if an SJ child had to choose between building a
design provided in an instruction book or creating something by trial
and error, he or she would probably select and follow a design from the
book.
*
For definitions of the Sensing and Judging preferences go to
Learn About Preferences
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