A Message from Gail
Hello Friends,
Every parent wants their child to feel confident and capable. However, children don’t always develop these feelings on their own. We all play a role in building our children’s inner strength through our daily interactions with them.
The Power of Positive Experiences
At Kansas Children’s Service League (KCSL), we recognize that Positive Childhood Experiences (PCEs) play a vital role in building confidence. These experiences shape how children see themselves and how they face new challenges. Families who create strong bonds help children develop self-assurance that lasts a lifetime.
Listen Actively and Validate Feelings
Parents and caregivers can foster PCEs through active listening. They create safe spaces for their children to share their feelings by setting aside distractions and listening attentively. Simple phrases such as “That sounds important to you” or “I can see why you feel that way” show children that their feelings matter. When we listen to and validate their feelings, we teach children to communicate emotions at an early age.
Celebrate Effort, Not Results
Another way to strengthen confidence in children is to celebrate their efforts rather than focusing on outcomes. Acknowledge their courage when they try something new and help them see mistakes as learning opportunities. This approach teaches children that trying matters more than perfection and motivates them to keep growing.
Nurture Resilience Through Connection
Prevention begins with strong relationships that build confidence over time. Strong parent-child bonds create the foundation for raising secure and resilient children. Parents who consistently use these approaches help their children build the inner confidence they need to navigate life’s challenges.
Kindly,
Gail Cozadd
KCSL CEO
