5 Ways to Help Your Child Build Confidence (and How Sports Can Help)
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5 Everyday Signs Your Child Is Ready for a Confidence Boost
As parents, we all want our kids to feel secure, proud of who they are, and excited to take on challenges. But even the most playful, driven, or social kids can go through seasons where they second-guess themselves or hold back.
The good news? These moments are completely normal. And they’re actually beautiful opportunities for growth.
At Kuyper Sports, we use sports to help kids become not just stronger athletes—but braver leaders, better teammates, and more confident people.
Here are 5 gentle signs your child might be ready for a boost in self-belief—and how our summer camps can help them grow from the inside out.
1. They Hold Back From Trying Something New
Sometimes it’s not that your child doesn’t want to try something— they're just unsure of themselves.
I remember when our son was 6, and had been asking to play baseball for a while. We finally signed him up and were excited to tell him. But his response surprised us—tears filled his eyes and he said, “But I don’t know how to play baseball.”
He thought he had to know everything before he ever stepped on the field.
We hugged him and told him, “Oh buddy, that’s exactly why we signed you up—so you can learn. Most kids on the team are learning too. The first step is just trying.” He calmed down and took that first step—nervously showing up to his first practice and giving it a go.
Now, a year later? He’s in his second season and wakes up at 8am with his uniform on for a 6pm game. He still has a lot to learn—but he’s growing, confident, and so proud of himself. (And if you ask his favorite part? It’s still the snacks after the game!)
At Kuyper Camps:
We create that kind of safe, encouraging space—where kids can try new things, feel seen, and learn at their own pace without the pressure to “already know.”
2. “I Can’t” Comes Out a Lot
When your child says “I can’t,” they’re often saying, “I’m not sure I can yet.”
This is common when kids are pushing through challenges or learning something new.
At Kuyper Camps:
We teach kids to shift their language and mindset. “I can try” becomes a powerful phrase they begin to believe. And as they keep practicing, they see what they can do.
3. They Get Frustrated When Things Don’t Go Perfectly
Some kids feel things deeply. When they lose a game, mess up a pass, or miss a shot—they take it to heart. That doesn’t mean they’re “too sensitive.” It means they care.
At Kuyper Camps:
We help kids separate their worth from their performance. They’ll learn that trying their best and treating others well is a true win—every single time.
4. They Prefer to Follow Instead of Lead
Not every child wants to be in the spotlight—and that’s okay. But sometimes, quiet kids just need an environment where they feel safe, seen, and encouraged to step up.
At Kuyper Camps:
Leadership looks different for every child. Whether they lead with energy, empathy, or encouragement, we help nurture those qualities in ways that feel natural and fun.
5. They Compare Themselves to Others
It’s easy for kids to get caught up in what others are doing better. But comparison can be a chance to grow—if they’re in the right environment.
At Kuyper Camps:
We teach kids to cheer on others and celebrate their own growth, too. Progress matters more than perfection. One step at a time builds lasting confidence.
Confidence Grows in the Right Environment
Confidence doesn’t always show up as boldness. Sometimes, it’s just having the courage to try something new, to raise a hand, to keep going after a tough moment.
At Kuyper Sports, we create a space where kids can try, fail, laugh, grow, and lead—with the support of caring coaches and new friends.
👉 Check Out Our Summer Camp Dates
Confidence That Sticks With Them
The growth your child experiences on the field doesn’t stop there. It goes with them—into their friendships, classrooms, and future teams.
Let this summer be one where your child discovers just how capable, courageous, and kind they already are.