How to raise an optimistic child

Optimism can be defined as hope and confidence about the future or the success of something. So how is it relevant to children? As parents, we want our children to live life with a positive mindset as it ensures success and happiness at the end. A positive outlook on life can make all the difference when it comes to achieving goals. Take a step back and think about it. A child that has an “I can” mindset is far more likely to succeed in life than one who thinks “why bother?”. This is because a positive mindset alone builds on vital skills such as perseverance which makes moving through life smoother. Children who are optimistic have a higher chance of dealing with setbacks well and living a life full of joy and happiness. The good news is, through simple practices, you can help your child build on this mindset. Below are some tips on how to raise an optimistic child. 

Set the right example

Children practice the behaviour that their parents present to them. This is why it is so important to set the right example when it comes to raising an optimistic child. Of course, you are human and will catch yourself thinking negative thoughts throughout the day. However, it is important to not be vocal about these feelings in front of your child. Comments like “everything has gone wrong today” will teach your child that it is okay to focus on the negative things in their day rather than the positive. Next time you catch yourself going down that negative route, be sure to bring up something positive too. This teaches your child that even though there are things that will make them feel sad in life, there are always other things to be happy and grateful for. It’s all about how you view things.

Practice gratitude 

Every night before bed, encourage your child to write down something positive about their day in a journal. It could be something as small as the sun shining after a miserable week or a stranger smiling at them on their way home from school. Not only is this a great activity to help your child look for good things, but it will encourage them to start practicing gratitude in their life on a daily basis. This is also a great way to understand what truly makes your child happy. Many parents like to practice this activity with their child, as it leaves them with happy thoughts at the end of the day, before they go to sleep. 

Praise their efforts instead of their success

It can be easy to get into the habit of praising your child every time they achieve something new or do something well. This could be as simple as achieving an A in their academic learning. However, it is more important to focus on the process rather than the outcome. This will help them understand that effort and hard work are what lead to success, and that failures are simply small setbacks that can be overcome with perseverance and dedication. Remind your child regularly that setbacks do not make them weak or less able to complete a task. Setbacks are normal and will crop up in the most unusual ways. Empower your child to make changes that will result in a better outcome the next time. 

Be realistic

As you try and teach your child an optimistic approach to life, don’t forget to be realistic too. Don’t let your child sit at the top of the charts if they clearly need improvement in their endeavours. Instead let them know that their hard work will definitely help them achieve their goals. You want to encourage your child to value hard work and see life in a way that allows opportunities for all through persistence, motivation and a great mindset.