What is Confidence, and How Can Kids Develop It?
Confidence is the most widely requested characteristic that parents identify when they call us about coaching support. Nearly every parent longs for their child to feel more confident. So how exactly do we define confidence? We believe it is the belief in yourself and your abilities developed over time as your learn to overcome setbacks. It’s what allows kids to take on challenges, try new things, and bounce back from mistakes. When children feel confident, they are more likely to persevere through difficulties, build strong relationships, and trust their own judgment.
At Bright Kids Coaching, we know that confidence isn’t something kids are just born with—it’s a skill they can develop!
“Confidence is a choice. The more you choose it, the easier it gets.”
- Dr. Jim Afremow, sports psychologist and mental performance coach.
Here are some key ways children can grow their confidence:
1. Encourage a Growth Mindset
Confidence grows when kids understand that their abilities are not fixed but can improve with effort. Encourage them to embrace challenges, learn from mistakes, and celebrate progress rather than just results.
2. Praise Effort, Not Just Outcomes
Instead of focusing solely on achievements, acknowledge the hard work, perseverance, and strategies your child uses. Saying, “I love how you kept trying even when it was hard!” reinforces their belief in their own abilities.
3. Provide Opportunities for Independence
Let kids take on age-appropriate responsibilities and make decisions for themselves. When children learn to solve problems and navigate challenges on their own, their confidence naturally increases.
4. Help Them Set and Achieve Goals
Setting small, achievable goals and celebrating their progress helps kids build self-belief. Whether it’s mastering a new skill in sports, completing a book, or learning to tie their shoes, each success strengthens their confidence.
5. Teach Positive Self-Talk
The way kids talk to themselves impacts their confidence. Help them replace negative thoughts like “I can’t do this ”with empowering statements such as “I can try my best” or “I am learning and improving.”
6. Encourage Them to Step Outside Their Comfort Zone
Confidence grows when kids try new things, even if they feel uncertain at first. Encourage them to join a new activity, make a new friend, or speak up in class. Each step outside their comfort zone strengthens their self-assurance.
7. Model Confidence Yourself
Kids learn by watching the adults around them. Show them how you handle challenges with a positive attitude, take risks, and believe in your own abilities. Your example will help them develop the same mindset.
8. Provide a Supportive Environment
A nurturing, supportive environment where kids feel loved and valued gives them the foundation to build confidence. Encourage their passions, listen to their concerns, and remind them that they are capable and resilient.
Confidence is a lifelong skill, and by fostering it in childhood, we set kids up for success in every area of life. At Bright Kids Coaching, we’re passionate about helping children develop the mental fitness they need to believe in themselves and reach their full potential!
Would you like to learn more about how we help kids build confidence? Contact us today!
