Well-rounded youth development consists of many factors, including teaching children how to be kind, patient, empathetic, and courageous. If you want to encourage bravery in your child to help the youngster gain confidence, stand up for themselves and others, and take chances, there are many positive ways to do so. Review a few ideas here to help you get started.

4 Ways to Foster Courage in Your Child

1. Forget About Perfectionism

Help your child take on assorted youth development tasks without feeling they have to be perfect, such as attempting challenging craft projects. Talk about doing the best job possible or trying new and different activities instead of striving for perfection and feeling discouraged when something doesn’t work out. Praise your child for trying and note that mistakes are part of being human. Instead of giving up, inspire the young one to try again.

2. Promote Positive Self-Talk

Encourage fearlessness with self-talk such as “I can do this,” “I’m a little scared, but I know I will be okay,” and “I am smart enough to take this project on.” If you hear your children saying negative statements about themselves, ask why they feel that way and create a solution that helps them develop a positive self image. For example, if they get discouraged about something, have them pick an uplifting song you both can dance to.

3. Watch Movies & Read Books With Brave Characters

Have fun reading books and watching movies where bravery is a central theme. Alternate between fictional and real-life heroes, and point out acts of courage. Discuss how characters kept going despite adversity because they believed in themselves and their abilities. Ask your child which characters they liked best and why to keep the conversation going.

4. Be a Great Example

Show the child that courage runs in the family by being brave in different ways. Never say negative things about yourself in front of your child, and instead, talk about being nervous or scared but working through the emotions. For example, if you are nervous about running an upcoming marathon, say something like, “While I have never run this long and am a little apprehensive, I know I can do it, and I can’t wait to see you at the finish line cheering me on!” Children imitate their parents, so if you show that you are brave and confident, your child will follow.

Register your child with the Boy Scouts of America since bravery is one of the principles each scout lives by. The youth development organization with a chapter in Roswell, NM, has a long history of helping boys and girls build character and self-esteem. Call (575) 622-3461 with registration questions or learn more about youth development programs online. Like the Facebook page for the latest inspiring stories and event news.