Editorial

"When you point out kids’ strengths, they grow in confidence." — Laura Lenz

One of the great privileges of working in a school is getting to know children as individuals. Every child has their own personality, interests, experiences, strengths and challenges. Parents know this better than anyone—even children raised in the same family and environment can see and experience the world in remarkably different ways.

It is fascinating how much of who we are is shaped by qualities we are born with. Traits such as optimism, courage, kindness, patience, creativity and loyalty often reveal themselves from a young age. While our environment influences how these qualities develop and are expressed, each child possesses a unique combination of God given gifts and characteristics that make them who they are.

When children are encouraged to develop their strengths by having adults around them recognise, nurture, and celebrate these gifts, they are better equipped to flourish and thrive. As a school, we so value the opportunity to partner with parents in affirming, supporting, and encouraging each child as they grow into the person God created them to be.

Research consistently shows that when adults identify and affirm a child's individual strengths, it has a powerful impact on their self-esteem and overall wellbeing. This goes beyond offering generic praise or simply focusing on positive feelings. Genuine encouragement comes from noticing specific qualities and character strengths and speaking into them thoughtfully and sincerely.

For example, you might tell your daughter how much you admire not only the artwork she creates, but the creativity, imagination and perseverance she demonstrates in the process. Or you might let your son know how encouraged you were to see him offer kindness and support to a friend who was having a difficult day. These moments of affirmation help children understand that their value extends beyond achievements or outcomes. They begin to recognise the positive qualities within themselves and develop confidence in who they are becoming.

Speaking to a child's strengths can be especially valuable during times of struggle. A child who finds school drop-off challenging may need reassurance that while the situation feels difficult, they are developing resilience and courage. A parent might remind them of other challenges they have successfully navigated and express confidence in their ability to cope with support from trusted adults.

When children hear the important people in their lives speak positively and truthfully about their strengths, they begin to build what might be called a 'bank of capabilities'—a growing collection of experiences and beliefs about what they can do and who they are. These reminders become valuable resources they can draw upon when they face uncertainty, disappointment or discomfort.

Life inevitably presents challenges, and resilience is not developed by avoiding every difficulty. Rather, it grows when children learn that they can persevere through challenges in safe and supportive environments. Our confidence in them often helps them develop confidence and self esteem in themselves.

By intentionally recognising and nurturing the strengths God has placed within our children, we help lay a foundation of healthy self-esteem that can support them throughout life. When children understand that they are valued, capable and uniquely created for a purpose, they are better equipped to face challenges, build meaningful relationships and flourish as the individuals God created them to be.

Jen Shattock

Secondary School Counsellor