Learning confidence informs a person’s belief that they can succeed in scenarios where they need to take in information or material. A lack of learning confidence stems from feeling inadequate in one or more subject areas or simply one’s own ability to learn.
The root of this doubt could be:
- an undiagnosed learning disorder
- a general negative experience in a learning setting
- behavior learned from watching a parent or guardian
- acceptance of mean comments made by a peer or teacher
Most adults operate with a sense of inadequacy in a certain subject. You have likely heard or said things like, “I’m not great at math”, “I was terrible at English”, or “I just don’t have a brain for history.”
To a degree, these sentiments are normal. However, this belief can be improved upon; and for the child who feels completely stuck in school, it needs to be improved. So let’s look at how we can help children build learning confidence.
Stay Positive – Model Healthy Learning
If your child already suspects they are “not good at school”, reprimanding them for being “lazy” or being a poor listener in class will not be productive. Instead, try to model healthy learning strategies by providing a space that is conducive for homework and studying. Help them to break down assignments into smaller tasks, rather than leaving everything for the last minute.
Celebrate small wins and let them know they are capable. If your child uses the words “I am stupid” or “I hate school,” you can help them by walking alongside them. You can model for them how to find the tools and setup they need to help them succeed.
Embrace Strengths and Bolster Weaknesses
Not everyone can be great at everything. Most people are naturally more adept at certain subject matters. However, by embracing strengths and strengthening weaknesses, students can tackle the areas they feel weaker in without panicking or even failing.
Working with a tutor can be helpful. At Compassionate Solutions, our tutors and educational specialists teach students tailored studying and learning strategies. If your child already has a diagnosis of a learning disorder they can benefit greatly from working with an educational therapist.
Don’t Give Up
Even if your child is overwhelmed by learning or feels as if they can’t do it, it’s important to encourage them to keep trying. Their education is their future; they cannot just give up when it becomes difficult.
Part of parenting is letting your child navigate difficult tasks so that they can learn to develop problem solving skills. It can also help grow their individuality. Encourage your child, but do not protect them from every struggle they face. Just remind them that they have what it takes.
Find the Root of Their Lack of Learning Confidence
If you suspect an undiagnosed learning disability is the cause of your child losing confidence in their ability to learn, it’s important to address that. A learning disability can be determined through a psychoeducational evaluation. These can be done through a private practice or through your child’s school if they are recommended for one.
An educational evaluation can provide insight into your child’s mind. It gives a detailed explanation of their strengths and weaknesses. It can also diagnose any learning disabilities your child might have. This way, you know what areas your child might need extra assistance in.
Early intervention when it comes to your child’s learning can be instrumental to building their confidence. Understanding the way their mind operates will help your child build independence. Encourage positive self-identity and self-advocacy skills.
Every child deserves to be confident that they can reach their learning goals. If you think an educational evaluation is the path to learning confidence your child needs, visit my website to set up a phone consultation.
