Recognise what is already there.
Notice interests, care for others, persistence or creativity. Use particular examples rather than praise that feels disconnected from their experience.
Create room to contribute.
A meaningful responsibility or achievable goal can give a child an opportunity to use a strength. Ask what they would value trying.
Listen to their interpretation.
Explore what they feel proud of and what still feels difficult. A mentoring relationship should allow their confidence to develop at a realistic pace.
From the ECNM journal
This reading edition adapts our published work. Explore the original article below.