One Conversation That Can Change the Way Your ChildSees Themselves

Now that summer is winding down, many parents are thinking about school supplies, new teachers, and getting back into routines.

Those things matter.

But there's something else I'd encourage you to prepare before the first day of school.

Your child's mindset.

Before school begins, find a quiet moment and ask one simple question:

"What are you most proud of about yourself this summer?"

You might hear, "I learned to swim."

Or, "I made a new friend."

Maybe they'll say they got better at reading, became more responsible, or finally had the courage to try something that used to scare them.

Or maybe they'll shrug and say, "I don't know."

That's okay.

Sometimes children need us to help them see what they've accomplished.

You might say, "I noticed how much more confident you've become," or, "I've seen you take more responsibility without being asked."

Those words matter more than we realize.

Working with children has taught me that many of them remember exactly what the important adults in their lives say about them.

Let's make sure they're remembering words that build them up.

As we head into a new school year, remind your child that they don't have to know everything on the first day. They don't have to be perfect. They simply have to be willing to learn, ask questions, and keep trying.

Confidence isn't something children either have or don't have.

It's something they build—one experience, one challenge, and one encouraging conversation at a time.

As parents, we have the privilege of helping shape that story.

Let's make it a good one.