With the school year coming to an end we have to continue to remind our children of how smart they really are. Let’s use this year as an example of ways that we can make the next year an even better year. Stress the importance of what they did this year that worked, and maybe what didn’t work. Never ever forget to tell children that they are smart!
Children need to be told on a daily basis how smart they really are. Whether it be done verbally or non-verbally it can be in the simplest way possible and unexpectedly. Something as simple as setting the table in a unique way and you recognizing it can go a long way. “Wow honey you did an excellent job setting the dinner table- the way you did it was brilliant and creative”. Look over at your child and he will not only be glowing but he will have that sense of gratification- he made you proud and you recognized it.
Make a mental note to identify all the positives your child accomplishes. Remind your child how smart he is by the choices that he makes. Remind him a smart person chooses to study, do their homework, pay attention in class, and follow directions. I also do the same with the children in my classroom. It is great to remind your child the choices he makes throughout the summertime are those “smart” choices that allow him to have a greater new school year. A smart student continues to study throughout the summer and read, this is what you strive for.
Every opportunity you get, make your child feel smart. While playing games just as exciting as bro138, give him that sense of confidence to try his very best. If he doesn’t win the game, stress the importance of trying his best and that winning doesn’t define that you are a winner or the level of your intelligence. Have conversations with your child and discuss topics of interest. Allowing them to talk about things they are confident and comfortable about makes it easier for them to feel smarter. Review past concepts and skills that they have learned in grades prior, this helps boost their self-esteem and allow them to believe they can retain information and apply it as well. Celebrate even the tiniest accomplishments and always stand by your child’s side so that he knows, “I am supported and valued”, but most of all he feels “smart”!
Children need to be challenged as well. A sense of challenge and difficulty will give a child an extra boost and extra confidence to work harder, conquer difficult obstacles and know that although something may be tough- they are smart enough to work harder and achieve what may seem to be impossible. Of course this does not all happen overnight. Your child’s self-esteem must be built over time, gradually working the child’s way to believing in himself.
The main goal and purpose of all of this is for your children to be a confident and independent individuals. Your children will grow to know that although there are times in life that may be hard, choices may be difficult to make, and things don’t always go our way- they are smart enough to know to make choices that are best for them. No one can tell them otherwise- they are confident to know their true self-worth and intelligence to grow even stronger!
How do you help your child feel smart?
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It is very important! I wish someone had told me when I was a child… So well done, teacher!
Thank you for commenting Paloma!
You are BRILLIANT and a BRILLIANT writer.
Thank you for your support sis.
xoxoxoxoxo
You know that I already love this! I try so hard to let all kids know they’re self worth. All kids need to know that they can do whatever they put their mind to do. “Positivity” is the key! I wish I would of been raised like this but it’s just something that I’ve had to learn with my own kids. Great job as always! Hugs chica!
Ana,
Thank you for reading! The great thing is that you are doing this with your own children and they will pass it along to their children. Great Mommy you are!!!
Hugs mama,
Eileen 🙂
Its so important for kids to know how much they are worth. Kids bet so much pressure from so many places people need to remember they are kids, they need our constant love and reassurance.
I agree Melissa—thanks for reading honey!
Hugs,
Eileen 🙂
Loved this one. You’re soooooo right!! Kiddos need to listen they are smart, it DOES feed their selfesteem!!
Thanks for reading Verooo.
xoxoxoxoxo I agree!!!!
Thank you so much–I checked your site out—great!! Love trucks!!!
Thanks for stopping by! I appreciate it!!!
Thank you so much!
It is greatly appreciated!!!
Lavagne,
Thank you so much for reading. I am honored and appreciative!
Hugs,
Eileen
Thank you so much for reading Alex!
I am glad that I was able to help.
Hope you come back soon.
Best,
Eileen
Thank you so much. I appreciate you reading.
As a parent-teacher I am always learning myself. I like to share what I learn so that future generation will have a stronger foundation.
Please continue to read.
Best and thanks a million,
Eileen
Thank you so much for reading!
Best,
Eileen 🙂
Hi Eileen.You touched on key points. I make it a continuous habit to speak words that lift-up my kids, as well as taking day to day living & learning opportunities to validate it. Just as much as they need guidance and correction they MUST be told they are smart. 🙂 Outstanding article.
Jerneal,
Thanks so much for taking the time out to read my article.
I 100% agree with you as well.
You sound like a wonderful parent!
Thanks a million!
Eileen 🙂
Hi Eileen
This is a wonderful Post. As parents/educators we should always let our children know how proud we are of them for the great decisions, choices they are making. It is very encouraging for kids to see how positive we are with their accomplishments. Focus should be on the positives, this encourages them to be more confident, and challenges them in great ways each day. Being present, being involved in discussions, and telling them they have made some really smart decisions is a very positive thing.