7 Practical Tips to Empower Your Child
What does it mean to feel empowered? It can mean so many things—acing a big test, being assertive in asking for help, or even working up the courage to introduce yourself to someone new.
As individuals navigating today’s world, many of us seek approval or validation from different places to feel empowered. For one of our most vulnerable populations—children—empowerment should begin where they feel safest: at home.
Here are seven practical strategies you can use today to help empower your child:
1. Use behavior-specific praise
Have you ever noticed how praise can shift your child’s entire mood? Take it a step further by being specific.
Try this: Instead of saying, “Good job!” after a social hangout, say, “You did a great job preparing activities for your friends and making sure everyone had fun.” Specific praise reinforces positive behaviors and builds confidence for the long run.
2. Spend intentional time with them
Building meaningful connections with your child shows them they’re valued and models how to connect with others.
Try this: Schedule weekly or monthly one-on-one time doing a shared, preferred activity. No phones, just you and them.
3. Celebrate their wins… AND their losses
While winning is fun and worth celebrating, kids also need to know they’re loved and supported no matter what. Acknowledge effort, not just outcomes.
Try this: Read The Fail-a-Bration by Brad & Kristi Montague together. For older kids, talk about their strengths and let them know their effort never goes unnoticed.
4. Really listen to them
Children want to be heard. When we listen, we become their safe space.
Try this: Have casual “car ride” chats or dinner table check-ins. You can even keep a shared journal where you write back and forth.
5. Invest in their interests
When we show genuine interest in what matters to them, kids feel seen and respected.
Try this: If they mention a new TV show, take time to watch it. Then bring it up in conversation. This sends a powerful message that their world matters.
6. Encourage them to affirm themselves
Positive self-talk helps kids become their own cheerleaders—even when we’re not around.
Try this: Create “I am” statements like “I am kind,” “I am brave,” or “I am learning.” Put them on sticky notes around their mirror, or hide them in lunch boxes and backpacks for a surprise boost.
7. Brag about them—while they’re listening
We all light up when someone says something kind about us. So why not do that for your child, in front of them?
Try this: “Can you believe how thoughtful she was today? She made sure everyone was included in the game. That’s the kind of friend people want to have.”
Try implementing just one of these tips this week and reflect:
How did it shift my relationship with my child?
How did it shape the way I parent?
We don’t have to be perfect, but we do need to be intentional. Our kids are watching. Let’s give them the tools, support, and confidence to believe they can conquer anything.
As Ayesha Siddiqi said:
“Be who you needed when you were younger.”
Brittany Pray, MSW
Social Learning Supervisor