Revisit - Confidence Isn't Feeling Good. Confidence is Self-Trust.

Self-Doubt

Children often grapple with self-doubt, impacting their self-perception and confidence. Dr. Becky Kennedy discusses how a child placed in a gifted program struggles with feelings of inadequacy, expressing sentiments like "I'm the worst in the class" 1. Parents may instinctively try to counter these feelings with logic or encouragement, but Dr. Kennedy suggests that confidence stems from self-trust rather than external validation 2.

   

Inner Voices

Embracing various internal voices is crucial for children's emotional development. Dr. Becky Kennedy advises parents to help children acknowledge and converse with their inner voices rather than suppress them 3. She uses the metaphor of a car to explain that all voices are passengers, and none should take the driver's seat 4.

The only thing that ends up working against us is if any part of us takes over the driver's seat, because then we've lost control.

--- Dr. Becky Kennedy

This approach fosters a healthier relationship with one's internal dialogue.

   

Voice Management

Discussing internal voices with children helps them manage self-doubt and insecurity. Dr. Becky Kennedy suggests that parents engage in conversations about these voices, making them relatable and less intimidating 5. By anticipating when negative voices might arise, children can learn to coexist with them without letting them dictate their actions 6.

As soon as we start talking to a part of us, it doesn't make decisions for us anymore.

--- Dr. Becky Kennedy

This empowers children to maintain control over their self-perception and actions.