As a parent, it’s hard to watch your child struggle with self-doubt. You want to protect them from these painful feelings, but then you realize that building self-confidence is one of the most important gifts you can give them.
Confidence isn’t just about feeling good—it’s a skill that impacts their emotional well-being, resilience, and long-term success.
I’m Carly Schrimpl, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and owner of Power Within Child Therapists. I believe confidence is the foundation that helps your child navigate life’s challenges with strength and self-assurance.
But, if your child is grappling with anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem, you might wonder how to help them find that confidence. That’s why it’s crucial to know that there are simple, effective strategies to support them in building their confidence.
Here are three powerful ways to help your child build self-confidence:
#1: Celebrate Effort, Not Just Outcomes
It’s easy to get caught up in the results. You feel proud when your child gets a good grade or wins an award, but then you realize that focusing solely on the outcome misses something more important. Rather than only praising success, celebrate the effort.
For instance, if your child studies hard for a test but doesn’t get the grade they hoped for, acknowledge their dedication to the task. When you highlight their effort, they learn that persistence and progress matter more than perfection.
As a result, they will view setbacks as opportunities to grow rather than failures, which helps build a sense of accomplishment and a resilient mindset.
#2: Encourage Problem-Solving
When your child faces a challenge, your first instinct might be to step in and fix things. But then, you realize that the real growth comes when you empower them to think for themselves.
Instead of offering immediate solutions, try asking, “What do you think we should do next?” This simple shift helps guide them toward problem-solving on their own.
As they begin to tackle challenges independently, they gain confidence in their ability to handle tough situations. Over time, this builds both their problem-solving skills and their self-esteem, which helps them develop resilience when obstacles arise.
#3: Foster a Safe, Supportive Environment
Every child needs to feel loved and valued, no matter what. However, you recognize that providing emotional support is not just about offering love—it’s about creating a safe space for them to express themselves openly.
Whether they’re talking about a bad day at school or expressing worries about something in their life, listen with empathy and without judgment. By creating this safe space, you reassure them that their voice matters. This reassurance builds confidence, as they feel secure knowing they have a trusted space where they can be themselves.
Building your child’s confidence is an ongoing process, but small, consistent actions can make a significant impact. But then, as you implement these steps, you’ll notice both small and big changes. Over time, they’ll gain the tools to believe in themselves and face challenges with courage.
If your child is struggling to build confidence, Power Within Child Therapists is here to help. Schedule an appointment today, and together, we can give your child the tools they need to communicate confidently and feel secure in who they are.
