How to Build Your Child’s Confidence Through Connection
When a child struggles with reading, it can chip away at their confidence. They might start to think, “I’m just not good at this,” or even, “I’ll never get it.” But here’s something powerful to help ground yourself and your child during the tough moments (or seasons): confidence isn’t built solely through success. It’s built through connection.
Let's dive in and explore how fostering a strong parent-child bond can help build your child's confidence- truly transforming their reading experience and helping them feel capable and confident—even when the process feels hard.
Why Connection is Key
Confidence thrives in an environment of safety and support. When your child feels connected to you, they’re more willing to take risks and try new things—even things that feel difficult, like reading a challenging word or trying a new strategy.
Now, that's not to say that if your child is reluctant it means you don't have a connected bond with them. It just means that strengthening, leveraging, and leaning into that bond will bear fruit in terms of increased effort and reading risks for your struggling reader.
Connection isn’t just about big gestures; it’s about the small, everyday moments that let your child know you’re there for them, no matter what. When they feel seen, heard, and valued, they’ll approach reading with more curiosity and courage.
Actionable Steps to Build Confidence Through Connection
Make Reading Time Special: Create a cozy, distraction-free space for reading together. Use this time to bond, not just focus on tasks. Share a laugh, ask open-ended questions about the story, and make it enjoyable.
Validate Their Efforts: When your child struggles, acknowledge their hard work rather than just the result. For example, say, “I’m so proud of how you kept trying!” instead of “You got it right!” This is a small adjustment, but it comes with a big impact.
Build The Bond
If you know me, you know I always emphasize the importance of connection as the foundation for literacy growth. In my work with parents, we work together to turn reading time into a joyful, empowering experience that strengthens your bond with your child.
Ready to deepen your connection and grow your child’s confidence using your inherent parenting strengths? Learn how you are uniquely equipped to crack your child's reading code by taking this 2-minute free quiz.
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Confidence and connection go hand in hand. When you prioritize your relationship and bond first, you’ll see your child’s confidence bloom—and their reading skills along with it.
This week, take a small step to make reading time a moment of connection. The results will amaze you.
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