The Follow-Up: Helping Kids Feel Proud

Raising kids who feel proud of who they are, not just what they do, is one of the biggest gifts we can give them. In this Follow-Up episode, I revisit my conversation with Dr. Becky Kennedy, recorded back when I was a new mom trying to understand how to raise a confident child. Now, with Ryaan heading into six, these lessons hit even deeper.

We talk about what real confidence looks like for kids, why outcome-based praise can backfire, and how to help our children find pride from the inside out. Dr. Becky breaks down how to shift the focus from grades, goals, and achievements to the qualities that matter most: effort, curiosity, and the internal spark that keeps them trying.

You’ll hear:

• Why kids who shine early aren’t always the ones with the strongest sense of self

• How over-relying on praise tied to performance can lead to pressure or perfectionism

• Simple swaps you can use today to build true confidence

• The power of noticing the process, not the product

• How to shift your questions so your child learns that good feelings start from within, not from outside approval

Want more? Listen to the full, original episode.

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