Much like a vaccine stimulating our immune system, learning to cope with manageable threats to our physical and social well-being is critical for the development of resilience. As parents, we need to be actively looking for opportunities for our children to get a little outside their comfort zones. This builds confidence in their ability to handle these challenges.
When you watch your child in a difficult situation, try to pick out the skills they are using and help them see their coping strengths. Maybe it was kindness, empathy, or cognitive flexibility.
The more children can see their strengths, the more likely they are to use them again when faced with the next challenge.