Telling your child you’re proud of them can sometimes feel a bit awkward, especially if having emotional conversations isn’t your strong suit (or theirs).
However, everyone likes to feel and be told that they’re doing a good job and that the people they care about — especially the ones who’ve raised them and sacrificed a lot for them — are proud of them. Even if it feels a bit strange, and you’re not used to expressing your feelings with your child (something you should definitely work on if so, by the way), here are a few ways to let them know how well you think they’re doing in life.
1. Focus on their efforts, not just the outcomes.
Source: Unsplash It can be tempting to only praise achievements, but focusing on the effort your child has put into something—whether they succeeded or not—shows them that you value hard work. This helps build resilience and encourages them to keep trying, regardless of the result.
2. Be specific with your praise.
Instead of a simple “I’m proud of you,” be specific about what exactly you’re proud of. Maybe they handled a tough situation with grace or showed determination to finish a project. Specific praise feels more genuine and highlights their unique strengths.
3. Use body language to show pride.
If saying the words is hard, show pride through body language. A big smile, a warm hug, or a pat on the back can speak volumes. Physical affection can make them feel your pride without you needing to find the right words.
4. Share your pride with the people around you.
If you find it difficult to say it directly to your child, share your pride with someone else—like a family member or friend—and let them hear about it. Often, knowing that you’ve expressed it to others will make your child feel more proud and valued.
5. Write them a letter or note.
Sometimes it’s easier to express emotions in writing. A heartfelt letter or note can give you the space to say exactly what you feel, and your child can keep it as a reminder of your pride for them.
6. Create a special ritual for praise.
If verbalising pride feels awkward, make it a special occasion. Maybe after a particular achievement or milestone, you have a “celebration moment,” like a favourite treat or a small gift, to make them feel recognised and valued.
7. Show interest in their passions.
Even if you don’t always understand what they’re passionate about, showing genuine interest in what excites them conveys your pride. When you actively engage with their hobbies or goals, they’ll feel that you are proud of who they are, not just what they do.
8. Encourage them to feel proud of themselves.
Rather than just telling them you’re proud, help them recognise their own achievements. Encouraging self-pride builds confidence and helps them internalise the sense of pride that they might not always feel on their own.
9. Be there to celebrate the little wins.
It doesn’t have to be a big accomplishment to express pride. Whether it’s getting through a difficult week or overcoming a minor challenge, being there to celebrate those little wins shows them that you notice and appreciate their progress.
10. Acknowledge their perseverance in tough situations.
Sometimes the most valuable thing to praise isn’t the outcome, but how they handled a tough situation. Acknowledging their perseverance shows that you see their growth and maturity, which is a powerful form of pride.
11. Use their strengths as an example to other people.
When you see your child excel at something, use that as an example to other people. Whether it’s sharing it with a teacher, relative, or friend, letting everyone know how proud you are of their accomplishments reinforces their worth and shows pride in a subtle yet meaningful way.
12. Take the time to listen and acknowledge their challenges.
Sometimes your child might not be feeling great about their progress, and listening to their concerns can show your pride in them as a person. Acknowledging their struggles lets them know you support them unconditionally, which reinforces your pride in them regardless of the outcome.
13. Be a constant source of support.
Letting your child know you’re always there for them—whether they succeed or fail—helps them feel your pride in their efforts. Constant support shows them that your pride isn’t contingent on success but on their growth and resilience.
14. Express your pride in the moments that matter most.
Sometimes, it’s not about regularly stating your pride but expressing it during moments that truly matter. Whether it’s a graduation, an accomplishment, or just a simple moment of growth, taking the time to express your pride during those significant moments can create lasting memories.
