Seven Ways to Help Your Kids Be Strong and Resilient Pt # 2
In my last post, I shared four tips for raising resilient kids:
- Encourage them to be “Treasure Hunters” – focus on building others up.
- Teach optimism and help them see they’re made in God’s image, capable of making a difference.
- Remind them always to do their best, knowing that success helps others, too.
- Show them that failure isn’t the end — it’s part of learning. Not trying is the real setback.
Now, here are three more essential ways:
5 – Live with Integrity
Help your children understand that honesty makes life simpler and leaves a lasting legacy. Living with integrity means making the right choices, even when no one is watching. It’s about acting honorably and avoiding anything that dishonors themselves or their loved ones. Being part of a church community can support this. Through strong relationships, kids learn from positive examples and develop a character they’ll respect forever.
6 – Take Responsibility
Teach your kids to own their actions. Whether in sports or life, they should accept the consequences of their choices. When mistakes happen, they need to learn from them — not hide from them. It’s about “owning it, confessing, and moving on,” like the saying goes. Responsibility helps build confidence and maturity. Remember, failure is not who they are, just what they do.
7 – Cultivate Connection
Friendship and social support are keys to resilience. Even if people are busier than ever, meaningful connections matter. Encourage your children to build genuine friendships, helping others without expecting anything in return. As Jesus taught, treat others the way you want to be treated. Teach kids to show kindness, respect, and compassion. Remember the wise words from Winnie the Pooh: “You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.” Your influence shapes their understanding of worth and kindness, so lead by example daily.
Additional Links:
Part 1 of Seven Ways to Help Your Kids Be Strong and Resilient Article. Link to Podcast
Link to Part 2 Podcast
Link to John’s Parenting Teens Articles on Focus on the Family