Confidence is essential for a happy, fulfilled life, and mental well-being. Children that are confident are likely to perform better, and be happier and healthier overall. They are also likely to try harder in life and work to their full potential. Instilling confidence in our children will allow them to try their best and enjoy their lives to the fullest, but the question is how do you raise confident children?
It Starts with Love
To give children confidence and self-worth, they need to feel loved. Spending quality time with a child makes them feel important. In addition, plenty of contact is also critical for their happiness. Hugs, kisses, holding hands, or even just an occasional pat on the back can go a long way to giving a child feelings of affection. A child that knows they are loved also knows they have someone special that will always be there for them.
Give Them a Sense of Independence
Children need to learn to be independent, because with that independence comes confidence. Always give children the chance to try things for themselves. When children succeed, they gain a good feeling, which increases their belief in their abilities. With this, they become more willing to try other things, and this goes a long way towards them becoming strong self-supporting individuals.
Praise and Acknowledge the Good They Do
Give plenty of praise and show enthusiasm when a child completes a task on their own. Even for the smallest achievements, it is important to show approval and give praise. This builds on the child’s confidence, as it reinforces their achievements. Offer plenty of encouragement and give guidance where needed. However, refrain from stepping in when possible, as children need to learn patience and get practice to be able to feel success. Taking over or helping gives them the message that they are not competent enough to do things on their own.
Let Them Fail
This can be the hardest thing for a parent, but children also need to experience failure. Believe it or not, it is an integral part of the learning process. After all, it is impossible to get everything right the first time around, and children need to understand this. Experiencing failures makes success feel even better. Practice and patience are important to allow children to learn. Once they master a skill, they can find the confidence to try again. Allow children to accept failure gracefully. Never make it a big issue, instead remind them that it’s okay, they can try again. Encourage optimism and let them know you love them know matter what. Being there for them in times of failure can give them the strength and courage to try again.
Confidence is built and strengthened in a number of ways. Parents can greatly help children to become confident by believing in them and making them feel important and loved. Give your children the opportunity to shine, be there for them when things go awry, and encourage them every step of the way. Instilling feelings of reliance and self esteem early on can boost their moral and happiness well into adulthood.
Hammond Psychology and Associates is the go-to resource for residents seeking psychological evaluations from a licensed psychologist in the Tampa Bay area. Click here to learn more about our Psychological Testing services in our Brandon location.