Nurturing Brave Hearts: 3 Simple Ways to Help Your Child Build Courage Through Conversation

Every parent knows that magical moment when their child finally opens up about what's bothering them. But getting there? That's the tricky part. As the author of 'Oliver and His Secret' and a parent myself, I've learned that courage isn't just about big, bold actions – it's about those quiet moments of sharing, trust, and connection.

Today, I'm sharing three gentle, proven approaches from our Courage Conversation Starter Pack that have helped families create safer spaces for emotional expression. Let's dive in!

• The Secret Sharing Game: Breaking Down Barriers. Remember playing "Simon Says"? Well, this is "Oliver Says" – but with heart! Start with simple prompts like "If you could tell someone anything right now..." or "The bravest thing I did today was..." These conversation starters, inspired by Oliver's journey, help children practice sharing in a playful, pressure-free way.

Pro Tip: Make it a bedtime ritual. Children often feel more comfortable sharing when they're cozy and the day is winding down.

• Creating a Courage Corner. Every superhero needs a headquarters! Designate a special spot in your home as the "Courage Corner."

  Here's what to include:

  • A brave moments chart

  • Comfy cushions or blankets

  • A special "brave heart" box for writing down feelings

  • Simple rewards system stickers

The key? Celebrate small acts of bravery, like sharing feelings or trying something new.

• The Emotional Weather Report: Making Feelings Fun. How's your heart weather today? This simple question transforms potentially scary conversations about emotions into something familiar and fun.

  Is it:

  Sunny and bright? (Happy and confident)

  A bit cloudy? (Unsure or worried)

  Stormy? (Big feelings brewing)

Children love this metaphorical approach – it gives them a vocabulary for complex emotions without the pressure of "getting it right."

These tools aren't just activities, they are bridges to deeper connection. They're inspired by Oliver's journey in 'Oliver and His Secret', where we learn that sometimes the bravest thing we can do is share what's in our hearts.

Remember, parents: You're not just teaching courage – you're modeling it. Every time you share your own feelings or acknowledge your challenges, you're showing your little ones that it's okay to be both vulnerable and brave.

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Jess x