“I’ve always believed that success for anyone is all about drive, dedication, and desire, but for me, it’s also been about confidence and faith.” – Stephen Curry.
Wouldn’t it be nice if all kids have the humble confidence of a Neymar, Henry or Stephen Curry? Something as teachers we regularly tell our students is to have confidence and believe in themselves. Lack of confidence in students is a common issue in my classrooms. I regularly tell students to never give up on themselves and they will achieve. We know as adults as children keep going they keep getting better and as they get better naturally they gain more confidence. With every step and every risk confidence builds. They start having fun and when they have fun they start doing amazing things. Below are eight ways to build your child’s confidence.
Hard Work
I believe action breeds confidence and courage. If you continue to work hard, you will see results. I think that breeds confidence.
Give Praise Where Praise is Due
Encouraging words and small achievements builds confidence. It is important to give children feedback because children measure their worth and achievements by what others think. Even if a child shows no talent at a particular skill praise the effort.
Set Realistic Goals
Set small and realistic goals for your child. Not everyone is going to play for Barcelona when they are 8 years of age. But many children can learn to juggle a ball 10 times on each foot.
Model Confidence
If you’re not confident yourself you cannot expect your students to be confident. I reward and praise myself in front of my students and celebrate my achievements.
Teach Resilience and Persistence
Nobody succeeds all the time. There will be setbacks, failures, criticism and pain. Teach them to use hurdles as valuable learning experiences.
Independence and Adventure
Let your child try new things themselves and give them space. Let them problem solve and make pave their own path. Allow them play in the rain, snow and beach (might happen in real life). This will expand their horizons and build confidence in handling new situations.
Build Relationships
When children are part of a team and they are making a difference, it develops important life skills and confidence.
Imagine Being a Star
Children are great imitators. If they envision themselves being Neymar and dream about playing for the top football clubs they are bound to feel more confident.
Let’s face it we all have our doubts. Doubt can motivate you and it goes hand in hand with confidence. As teachers we need to remember that you need to not to only encourage and develop confidence in your students but also in ourselves and our teaching.
-Daniel Micevski