I am a parent, blessed with a son and a daughter, both of which I love more than I can express to them or in this forum. As a parent I understand there are a multitude of responsibilities I have to my children. I must provide security, financial needs, emotional needs and other necessary components as they develop toward adulthood and transition to responsibility for themselves and a family of their own.

One of the most important components of this is to instill several vital qualities within them. These character qualities are things that will guide them and sustain them in all their experiences when mom and dad are not present to help filter the harsh realities of the world. We all would like to think we can shield our children from the troubles they will encounter, but alas, we cannot.

Developing confidence within our children of their abilities is vital to their success at everything they do. Even in elementary school there is a type of competition where some things are out of reach to everyone unless they are bold enough to step forward and take the initiative to get involved in new things. Children lacking confidence will not be among this group and will miss opportunities that might otherwise ignite their imaginations.

A basic way to do this is to pay attention to the situations your child experiences and their reaction. You will soon see a pattern to help you determine the activities that your child is drawn to and shys away from. Obviously interest is a major deterrent for some children, but others want to do something bnut have little confidence that they can succeed. Or, maybe they have seen another fail and those who can accomplish the task make fun of those who don't.

Don't be afraid to praise your kids for their successes. We are quick to chastise and punish then for bad choices. Be as attentive to their successes and you will begin building a confidence that will pay dividends all their life. It might mean the difference in a career that is rewarding or choosing a spouse with similar ambitions instead of settling for the first attention giver they encounter.

Confidence breeds confidence. A child will build on positive experiences to try more new things and new activities. That is, if they are encouraged and feel like someone believes in them. Parents have nearly two decades on average to make their impact in their children's lives. Make the most of it, build them up any chance you have.

Learn more about this author, Joe Owens.
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