Parenting on Purpose - Building Resilience in Children and Teens

Resilience is the ability to “bounce back” from adversity. Resilient people still feel pain, sadness, or anger — but they are able to cope with and manage these feelings while continuing on with their lives.

For children, resilience is an especially important skill. It:

• Helps them adapt to a new classroom or school

• Buffers them against bullying

• Promotes more favourable outcomes when home or family environments are stressful

10 Tips for Building Resilience in Children and Teens

(Adapted from the American Psychological Association)

1. Make connections

Encourage your child to build healthy friendships through empathy, kindness, and active listening. A strong family network is equally vital — children who feel supported at home are more resilient in the world.

2. Encourage helping others

Helping fosters empowerment in children who might otherwise feel powerless. Involve them in age-appropriate volunteer activities or school peer support opportunities.

3. Maintain a daily routine

Routines create stability and safety. Consistency is especially important during times of transition or stress.

4. Take a break

Allow your child time to rest, play, and process their feelings. Sit with them, listen, and help them focus on small things they can control.

5. Teach self-care

Model balance yourself. Encourage rest, fun, healthy eating, movement, and good sleep habits. Show them that looking after yourself is part of being strong.

6. Move toward goals

Support children in setting achievable goals. Break big goals into small, manageable steps so they can experience success and momentum.

7. Nurture a positive self-view

Remind your child of their strengths and past successes. Encourage self-trust and confidence that they can handle future challenges.

8. Keep perspective and stay hopeful

Teach optimism and hopefulness. Help children understand that difficult times pass and that there are always better days ahead.

9. Look for opportunities for self-discovery

Guide children to reflect on what they’ve learned from challenges. Tough times often teach them the most about themselves.

10. Accept change

Help your child see that change is a natural part of life. New goals and opportunities often arise when old ones are no longer possible.

Final Thoughts

Resilience is a personal journey — and as parents, you are your child’s greatest guide. Share your own experiences of stress and coping strategies with them. Above all, listen, acknowledge their feelings, and offer your support.

By helping your child build resilience, you’re giving them a lifelong toolkit to navigate challenges with strength, hope, and confidence.