Learning Confidence Takes Time–the Younger You Start, the Better.
Scott Hamilton loved to ice skate, but was told repeatedly that he did not have the talent to compete as a figure skater. And yet, he went on to win multiple World Championships, an Olympic gold medal, and the hearts of America.
How?
He believed he could do it. He never gave up. This same story has been told many times, with many different people in the starring role. It can be the story of anybody who believes in themselves and is willing to put in the effort toward achieving their goals.
Parents can boost their children’s self-confidence by providing them with encouragement and support. Think about how we encourage toddlers to take their first steps; “that’s it, you can do it! What a big boy!” You can use this same approach with every area of your child’ s life, at any age. Celebrate improvements, no matter how small. You can also assist your child by breaking tasks down into smaller, more achievable goals so that they can feel successful as they acquire a new skill. When they figure it out, notice. Teach them that they have what it takes to rise to challenges.
This doesn’t mean offering children congratulations they haven’t earned. Struggling—and then succeeding—is a big part of learning confidence. Unfortunately, many loving parents don’t want to see their children struggle. By stepping in to take care of anything difficult, these parents unintentionally prevent their children from developing the perseverance to see things through. Doing too much for kids robs them of a sense of personal capability.
Parents must be patient enough to allow their child to take thirty minutes to do a task that an adult might complete in two minutes. Children must be allowed the opportunity to struggle so they will learn to accept struggling as a means of attaining their goals.
Your patience and confidence in your child’s growing ability to learn will encourage their learning process. Learning will be more enjoyable, and your kids will feel supported and appreciated for their efforts. As you communicate to them your belief in their abilities, they will begin to believe in themselves.
You can start building learning confidence now.
