10 ways you can nurture assertive and confident children at home

10 ways you can nurture assertive and confident children at home: Practical examples relating to the ten tips above on how you can implement each of these strategies:

Encourage them to express their feelings:

When your child expresses their feelings, listen actively and validate their emotions. For example, if your child tells you they feel sad because they miss their friend, you can say, “I understand you miss your friend, and it’s okay to feel sad. Would you like to talk more about it?”

Set boundaries and expectations:

Clearly communicate your expectations and boundaries to your child, and be consistent in enforcing them. For example, if you expect your child to clean up their toys before bedtime, remind them of this expectation and encourage them to take responsibility for their actions.

Teach them to problem-solve:

When your child encounters a problem, ask them to brainstorm solutions and help them evaluate the pros and cons of each option. For example, if your child is struggling to make friends, you can suggest joining a club or activity where they can meet other kids with similar interests.

Foster independence:

Encourage your child to make decisions and take responsibility for their actions. For example, if your child wants to pick out their own clothes, give them the freedom to choose what they want to wear.

Provide positive reinforcement:

Praise your child when they demonstrate assertiveness and confidence. For example, if your child speaks up in class and shares their opinion, tell them how proud you are of them for expressing themselves.

Role-play assertive behaviour:

Role-play different scenarios with your child where they can practice being assertive. For example, you can pretend to be a friend who is being mean to them, and encourage your child to assertively communicate their boundaries.

Encourage assertive communication:

Teach your child to use “I” statements and express themselves clearly and respectfully. For example, instead of saying “You’re mean,” encourage your child to say, “I don’t like it when you call me names.”

Model assertive behaviour:

Model assertive behaviour yourself by expressing your own opinions and feelings in a clear and respectful way. For example, if you disagree with someone, express your disagreement in a calm and respectful manner.

READ: 5 strategizes for building assertiveness and confidence at work places

Encourage risk-taking:

Encourage your child to try new things and take risks. For example, if your child is interested in learning a new skill, encourage them to take a class or join a group to learn more about it.

Build self-esteem:

Encourage your child to engage in activities that make them feel good about themselves, such as sports or hobbies, and provide them with positive feedback and support. For example, if your child draws a picture, praise them for their creativity and encourage them to continue exploring their interests.

Do not let your child grow into a timid teen and then into a timid adult, the time to start introducing them to assertive and confident strategies and actions is now.

Now, put the 10 ways you can nurture assertive and confident children at home into practice with every child.