Have you ever come across a child that just exudes confidence and think to yourself, “wow, this child seems very sure of himself.”
Confidence is an important trait to have for a child’s future happiness, health, and success. Confident children are usually better equipped in dealing with peer pressure, responsibility, frustrations, challenges, as well as both positive and negative emotions.
So what is the main factor in developing a child’s confidence?
It’s YOU!
Gosh, no pressure right? Well, not to worry – building a child’s confidence doesn’t have to be an intimidating or complicated task, it can be fun too!
Try out these 7 strategies to start boosting your child’s confidence today!
#1 LET THEM KNOW OR SHOW THAT YOUR LOVE IS UNCONDITIONAL
Whether they did something wrong, did something not up to your expectation or made poor decisions, make it clear to them that you still love and care for them. Avoid harsh criticism or shaming them when they do something wrong.
The way we see our kids (or the way our kids believe we see them) has a profound impact on the way they see themselves.
#2 PRACTICE POSITIVE SELF-TALK
It isn’t just us adults that often talk to ourselves in a negative or damaging chatter about how “i can’t do this”, “i’m not as good as _____” or “I’m not capable,” kids do it too, which is why positive self-talk and affirmations are a great way inject some positivity and confidence in them.
#3 JOIN THEIR PLAY (AND LET THEM LEAD)
When you join in your child’s playtime, you are sending a message that he is important and worthy of your time.
Try allowing your children to initiate or choose an activity, as well as lead it during playtime. When we engage with them and appear to enjoy their activities, your child will feel valuable and have that feeling of accomplishment.
#4 TRY OUT A THEATRE CLASS
Theatre isn’t just about singing, dancing or acting. Most theatre classes empower children to move out of their comfort zone, learn how to speak confidently and make them feel capable of doing or being whatever they want to be, which makes it a great way to boost their self-confidence.
#5 GIVE AGE-APPROPRIATE TASKS AROUND THE HOUSE
When kids do chores or small tasks such as making the bed, feeding the cat, or picking up after their toys, they feel that they are making a valuable contribution, which then gives them a sense of competence and confidence.
#6 LET THEM MAKE DECISIONS
We’re not talking about big decisions that might overwhelm a child, but more simple ones to give them a chance to make choices. For young children, try giving them options instead of making it an open question. Example – don’t ask your 3-year-old what he wants for lunch, but offer pasta or rice.
When your child gets the chance to make choices from a young age, he’ll gain confidence in his own good judgment in the future.
#7 FOCUS ON IMPROVING YOUR OWN CONFIDENCE
This isn’t something you can accomplish overnight, but it’s one of the most essential on this list.
We are a child’s first and best role models, so take time to repair your own confidence if needed. Start by making positive comments about yourself and others in your child’s presence.
