Families For Life | 5 empowering ways to support your little but big dreamers

What did you want to be when you were younger? Every child has aspirations that they want to achieve when they get older. As a parent, you play an important role in nurturing those dreams and giving your child the confidence to believe in their limitless potential. Regardless of how big or small your child’s dreams may be, your encouragement makes all the difference in raising self-confident, self-assured children.

Read on to learn why helping your child believe in their dreams is important and get five actionable steps to support your little, big dreamers!

Big dreams, bigger benefits

Letting your kids dream big while they’re still young has its benefits. By supporting their aspirations, you’re fostering confidence, resilience, and creativity – the key ingredients for success later in life. When kids believe they can contribute positively to their community, it also pushes them to stay focused on that goal.

Of course, while your child may have good intentions, it is also crucial to ensure their goals do not cause harm to themselves or others, and are in line with your family's morals. It is important to play a supportive yet mindful role when encouraging your children in their quest to make their dreams come true.

With that, here are 5 tips to be your child’s number 1 supporter! 

Be a part of the conversation

If your child shows interest in certain topics or careers, mirror that interest and talk to them about it. Find opportunities to have conversations about their interests and get involved in activities that support the dream. If your child shows an interest in animals, take them to the zoo or aquarium. If your child likes to sing, consider signing up for singing lessons. Being present will get you in tune with their thoughts, and you can respond more accurately to show your support.

Avoid talking them down

While we know that some kiddos’ dreams are short-lived or unattainable at the back of our minds, it is never a good idea to tell them that they are not good enough to achieve something. Plus, handing out solutions or advice that goes against their thoughts may turn them off. Instead, actively listen to their views before giving yours, and be open to discussions, debates, or disagreements with them.

Share your personal experiences

Problem-solving and creative thinking are part and parcel of reaching our goals. When you talk to your child about your own experiences and thoughts, you introduce them to different approaches, perspectives, and views in their quest to reach their aspirations. If they encounter difficulties, encourage them by sharing a similar experience. Or if they need a listening ear, set aside time to hear them out. Sometimes, your child may not turn to you for solutions – rather they need inspiration to help them stay determined to work towards their dreams.

Be open-minded

Not all children have a singular passion or know what they want and like, and can do well from the start. In this case, let your child freely discover and develop a basket of hobbies. No matter if these hobbies turn out to be short-lived or something that solidifies along the way, provide them with the guidance they need and let your child enjoy the journey.

Work with schools

Working with your child’s educators is a great step in understanding how their interests, strengths, and aptitudes are developing. Ask how your child is performing academically, how they have been performing in their CCAs, or how well they work with peers. This gives you a better view of your child’s personality and weaknesses, and what you can do to further support your child outside of school.   

Raising future changemakers

As Shia Lebouf once said, “Don’t let dreams be dreams.”. Your child’s aspirations reflect their unique potential and creativity. By supporting, guiding, and encouraging them, you help build their self-confidence, problem-solving, and positive thinking for their future. As parents, you play an important role in being their number one cheerleader and inspire them to achieve their goals. Who knows, you might raise dreamers who will change the world for the better!