Sometimes the greatest accomplishment is just turning up—for the big competition, the first trip away with school or the opening night of their school play. Let kids know that it takes guts to meet challenges like these, and that you’re so proud of their bravery and their fearless approach to life. Remind them of past successes (or even failures they’ve survived) and how the things they do now will stand them in good stead later in life.

Nothing delights a child more than an unexpected card from someone they love, whether it’s tucked under their pillow or arrives in the post. Messages like “Fantastic effort on your maths test” or “I knew you could do it!” or “Hope you’re proud of yourself – I certainly am!” are worth their weight in hugs and kisses and will give them all the encouragement they need to keep on doing what they’re doing.

Generate all kinds of motivation by rewarding everyday good deeds like helping out without being asked, being kind to the new kid in school or just having the courage to be themselves. Encourage them to keep doing what they’re doing with treat vouchers, their favourite dinners or special time set aside for just the two of you to enjoy their favourite activity.

Being a kid isn’t all fun and games that’s for sure. And there will be times when other kids are mean, or the schoolwork is a struggle, or they miss out on a place in the team, or any one of a hundred other things that can seem like the end of the world when you’re young. A simple card from someone who loves them, reminding them that they’re kind, or funny, or smart or just generally an amazing person, can do an awful lot to help them pick themselves back up and keep going.

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