Tag Archive for: child well-being

Building Self-Confidence in School Children

Love, black family hug and grandmother with children enjoy outdoor quality time together, peace or nature park freedom. Fun kids, bond and portrait of excited sisters play with grandma on grass field.

Confidence is one of the greatest gifts we can give our children. In the primary school years, when children are developing their identity and learning how to navigate the world, self-confidence lays the foundation for resilience, curiosity, and emotional strength. As parents and caregivers, we play a vital role in shaping how our children see themselves and their abilities.

Here are a few simple, powerful ways to help your primary school child build confidence:

1. Celebrate Effort, Not Just Results

Instead of focusing only on marks or trophies, praise the effort your child puts into their schoolwork, sports or hobbies. Saying things like “I’m proud of how hard you worked on that project” teaches children that trying their best matters more than being perfect.

2. Encourage Independence

Let your child take on age-appropriate responsibilities like packing their own lunch, tying their shoelaces, or helping with simple chores. When children do things for themselves, they develop a sense of pride and self-belief.

3. Create a Safe Space for Mistakes

Remind your child that it’s okay to make mistakes. Learning from failures is a key part of building confidence. Share stories of times you struggled but kept going—this helps children feel less alone in their challenges.

4. Be Their Cheerleader

Support their interests, whether it’s painting, dancing, coding or football. Attend their school events or matches when possible. Your presence and encouragement show them they matter.

5. Teach Problem-Solving

Instead of jumping in to fix every problem, guide your child to think of solutions. Ask questions like, “What do you think you could do differently next time?” This helps them grow into confident, capable problem-solvers.

6. Model Confidence

Children learn by watching us. Speak positively about yourself and face your own challenges with courage. When you show confidence, even in difficult times, your child learns to do the same.

7. Celebrate Their Uniqueness

Every child is different. Embrace what makes your child special – whether they’re shy, talkative, creative, or analytical. Let them know they are loved exactly as they are.

At Uitsig Primary, we believe that every child has the potential to shine. By working together – teachers, parents and caregivers – we can build a supportive environment where our learners grow into confident, happy individuals ready to shape the future.

Let’s raise children who believe in themselves, because they know we believe in them too. 🌱

Working Together for Our Children’s Success

Mother helping and supporting her daughter with homeschool while staying at home. New normal lifestyle concept.

At Uitsig Primary, we believe that every child deserves the best opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed. But this important journey is not one the school can take alone — we need the support and involvement of our children’s first and most important teachers: their parents.

The Department of Basic Education has created a helpful booklet to guide parents in becoming active partners in their child’s education. It aims to answer key questions that many parents have, such as:

  • How is my child doing at school?

  • How can I help my child do well and improve?

  • What can I do to support my child emotionally and socially?

  • How can I ensure my child has a positive school experience?

By working together in a spirit of respect and cooperation, parents and teachers can create a supportive environment where children thrive. Whether it’s checking homework, talking about school, encouraging reading, or attending school events, every small action makes a big difference.

As the African proverb says, “It takes a village to raise a child.” At Uitsig Primary, we are proud to be part of that village — and we invite every parent to walk this journey with us, side by side.

Let’s build a brighter future for our children, together.

Download the Parent Guide here

Source: Department of Basic Education