Picture a young child struggling to build a tower of blocks. Every time they stack them higher, the structure wobbles and collapses. Frustration wells up in their tiny hands, ready to give up. But then, a voice says, "You’re getting better! Try again!" With renewed determination, they stack the blocks once more. This voice, full of belief and encouragement, is the invisible force shaping their future.
Parents often worry about providing the best - the best clothes, the best gadgets etc. While these are useful, none compare to the immeasurable value of encouragement. A child with encouragement grows up believing they are capable, resilient, and worthy. Love gives them warmth, but encouragement gives them wings. Encouragement isn’t just about offering praise—it’s about guiding a child to see their potential and stretch beyond their comfort zone. It’s about saying, "I know you can do this," even when they doubt themselves. It’s about reminding them that failure isn’t the end, but a stepping stone to growth.
Encouragement does not mean ignoring weaknesses. Shielding children from their flaws does not make them stronger—it makes them fragile. If a child is careless with their work, a parent’s role isn’t to say, "It’s fine, you’re amazing!" but rather, "You have a great start! Let’s refine it together." Encouragement is truth wrapped in kindness. Children who receive encouragement in the right way develop a strong inner voice. They learn to say to themselves, "I can improve," rather than "I’m not good enough." This self-belief will carry them through school, friendships, careers, and life’s unexpected challenges.
How to Offer Encouragement That Lasts?
# I love how much time you spent on this project! instead of You’re so smart.
# You’re improving every time you try! rather than You have to be the best.
# This is great! Let’s see how we can make it even better.
# Show them how to encourage others by being their example.
A child raised with encouragement becomes an adult who faces life with courage and optimism. They become the person who lifts others up, who isn’t afraid to take risks, who doesn’t crumble under setbacks. This is the kind of gift that lasts a lifetime, shaping not only one individual but generations to come.
So it is always a good idea to ask yourself every other day - Have I given my child the gift of encouragement today?
The right words, spoken by the parents or teachers with belief and love, can be the foundation upon which they build their future, don't you think so?
