There are many ways we can build confidence in our kids. Here are 4 simple ways to do just that:
1. Ask their opinion:
Children like to be asked for their point of view. It helps them to develop their critical thinking skills.
For example:
Do you think we should go to the grocery store or the butcher first?
Should we have strawberries or apples for dessert today?
Sara is not feeling well. Do you think we should give her the fleece blanket or the fuzzy blanket?
2. Promote problem solving skills:
When we give kids some practice in solving the little problems of life, they may have an easier time solving the big ones.
We as parents can ask:
What can we do to make sure that your homework is in your backpack everyday?
There has been some fighting over the TV. What can we do to remedy this?
The table is not being cleared efficiently. How can we make sure that everyone is doing their jobs?
3. Let them know they can solve their own problems:
Kids also like to have a say in what will help them overcome the little challenges that they face everyday. To teach them that they have the ability to help themselves with a little thought, you can ask:
Your team had some trouble on the soccer field. What could you do to help your team?
Sam was mean to you today. That hurts. What can you do to prepare yourself if he does it again?
What could you do to help you manage Ms. M's criticism?
4. Reinforce confident behavior:
Finally, as parents we want to praise thinking that is solution oriented. Any time they come up with a solution that helps the household parents want to acknowledge it. Any attempts by children to come up with a solution to any of their problems should be noted as well.
- "I like that idea, let's try it and see if it works."
- "That is an interesting perspective. You were thinking out of the box."
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