RAISING A BRAVE CHILD

As parents, it is our responsibility to raise a strong and fearless child. But, the number of challenges children face in today’s world can be rather overwhelming. Bullying, body shaming and stereotyping are all issues that children face. It does take considerable effort to raise a child, and parents might be concerned that they have missed the boat in teaching their child to be confident and brave.

The good news is, it’s never too late to instil these values in your child. Children are born with a natural sense of adventure and curiosity, and we are the ones to show them how to use this to navigate through this challenging world.

Here are ways on how we can raise a brave child.

1. Demonstrate what bravery means.

Firstly, as a parent, you need to show what bravery means, if you want to instil the same trait in your children. From a very young age, children begin observing their parents as well as other children around them and replicating what they see. Thus, it is vital for parents to set a great example while allowing them to see you stepping outside of your comfort zone. For example, if you are afraid of rollercoasters, conquer your fears and ride one at a theme park with them. Be honest about your own concerns and anxiety, and then demonstrate to your children how you overcome these to achieve your goals.

2. Challenge and praise them.

Naturally, we want to protect our children from any danger or harm. But we must constantly push them to try new things and face their fears such as trying new food, speaking in front of the class or even participating in a sport. When your child attempts these things, be sure to praise them. Let them experiment with activities that push them physically or emotionally such as theatre, sports or music – anything that helps them understand that they are strong, powerful, capable of coping and not as fragile as they may believe. Giving children the chance to take risks or do risky things in a safe environment can also promote bravery. Indoor climbing, for example, is safe and exciting. It pushes children out of their comfort zones enough to attempt new challenges.

3. Value their feelings.

Demonstrating to your child that you value and acknowledge their feelings, even when they’re not feeling brave enough, can establish you as a safe place for them and this teaches them self-control and self-confidence. Parents should also remind them that it is normal to be scared. If your child is afraid to try new things, help them understand their feelings. Teach them that part of being brave includes exploring new things even when they don’t feel like it. Any time they take the opportunity to be brave, they are strengthening the qualities that will help them face the real world.

To conclude, the process of teaching children to be brave takes time. Both the parents and the child must put in a lot of effort. Always remember to be patient with your child. The most important thing you can do is to be there for them. Even when they aren’t feeling brave, knowing that you are rooting for them will give them courage.