If your child is shy and low on confidence, then you might be looking for ways to make them feel better about themselves. While you can be supportive and encouraging, it might also help to find a sport or activity that helps them build their own self-confidence.
If your child doesn't already have a specific sport or activity in mind yet, then consider introducing them to Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ). How will BJJ help your child?
Build Up Their Fitness
If your child isn't that active, then a BJJ class will give them a real physical boost. The work they'll do during training sessions and matches gets them moving. They'll build up strength and muscle. If they struggle to maintain a healthy weight, then they will naturally become more toned. If they go to classes regularly, then they'll lose some weight.
While the physical side of BJJ can be intense, your child shouldn't feel overwhelmed. BJJ training is fun. Your child will start out slow as a beginner and then train harder as they get more experienced and fitter.
If you can boost your child's physical fitness, then they will start to feel happier and more confident. They'll benefit from the release of endorphins every time they go to a class. These hormones naturally make people feel more relaxed and less stressed. If your child has been worried about being overweight, then their weight loss will also make them feel better.
Give Them Self-Belief
If your child lacks self-confidence, then they might assume that they aren't really good at doing stuff that matters to them and their peers. For example, your child might judge their own abilities on the success of sporty kids. If your child is smaller or less physically adept than their peers, then they might feel like a failure.
One of the great things about BJJ is that it teaches kids how to use both their bodies and brains to compete in matches. The point here is that a smaller and weaker opponent can defeat someone who is much bigger and stronger by using the right tactics and moves.
As your child develops their BJJ skills, they should grow more confident in their own abilities. They will do things that they didn't think were possible before, and their problem-solving skills will become more developed. This all gives them a big confidence boost.
To find out more, contact a local Brazilian jiu-jitsu gym and ask if they do taster or introductory sessions. You can then take your child along to see if they might be interested in giving this sport a try.
For more information, contact a Brazilian jiu-jitsu gym near you.