Confidence

Confidence

Confident young children are not afraid to make mistakes when learning something new. They believe that they will be successful if they try hard. They only ask for their parent's or teacher's help when they have tried their very best. Confident young children are not afraid to meet new classmates. They expect to be liked and make friends. When someone wants them to do something they don't want to, (break a rule) confident children tell them nicely what they want to do.  Confident young children make themselves big and tall and speak in a voice that everyone can hear but is not too loud or yelling.

Examples of confident behaviour in children

1. Choose to participate in a new activity with new friends.
2. Shares what happened during the day with his/her parents. Clearly outlining the events.
3. Introduces himself/herself to someone new.
4. Speaks loudly enough so people can hear them clearly.
5. Does a new activity without first asking for help.
6. Participate in all class activities without worrying about what others may think.

Ways to praise your child for confident behaviour

• 'That took confidence.'
• 'You were brave to do that all by yourself.'
• 'Good for you. You were not afraid of trying something new.'
• 'You see, we all make mistakes when we are learning something new.'

Teach your child the following confident thinking:

• Accepting myself - I am likeable and good at doing many things.
• Taking risks - It is ok to make mistakes when learning something new or practising.
• Being independent- it is good for me to try new activities by myself and it's ok to ask for help if I need it.

Practical things you can do to develop confidence in your child 

• Give your child a special responsibility (setting the table, taking out rubbish).
• Ask your child questions you know he/she can answer.
• Set aside time each day for your child to demonstrate what he/she has learned at school.
• Help your child to identify and develop individual interests and talents.
• Do not give your child too much attention when he/she expresses negative feelings about school work.
• Encourage your child to speak clearly when asked a question.
• Praise your child for doing something new.
• Praise your child for completing homework/ assignments on time.