How to Boost Your Teen's Self-Confidence: 8 Parent-Approved Self-Taught Tricks by Holly Budde

Self-confidence isn't arrogant or boastful – it's self-reliant. It needs practice! Statistics show that self-confidence begins to suffer in some kids as they reach the tween years. A shocking 70 percent of young girls will miss social activities if they feel bad about themselves that day. 

The wonderful news is that confidence can be taught. The earlier we begin teaching our kids a few tricks to flex their confidence, the more self-assured they will be. Here are a few tricks I've learned along the way (most will work for us moms, too!): 

• Comparing themselves to others? Remind them that a person's success has nothing to do with them – they aren't lacking anything. 

• Little steps outside of your kids’ comfort zone can go a long way. They will get braver, stronger and more assured each time.

• If your kid says something negative about themselves, stop and have them tell you three positive things about themselves.

• Let kids work out arguments on their own.

• Talk positive about yourself, and your kids, in front of them.

• Remind kids to practice for what they want. Talent isn't always natural.

• Failing is good! Do it! And let them do it – then try it again.

• Make kids accountable for their actions.

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