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How can I build 12 year olds confidence?

6 replies

DitzyBrown · 13/07/2018 20:18

My ds has always been shy and quiet. He spent his 1st 4 primary years in a large school and was never happy always getting "picked on" school never did anything so come year 4 we decided to change schools. Moved him to a little country school and he blossomed still a bit shy quiet but quite a bit more confident. He's just finishing his 1st year at high school and this year's been "ok" but "tough". Met up with lots of old people he knew from the old school which scared him and only 4 people went to the school from the primary so big changes. Throughout the year he's been "bullied" which tbh school have really tried to help but nothing much changes as it's all small things ie tripping him up name calling etc my ds has coped really well and we have open chats and I'm in contact with school weekly. Its just I feel if he had a bit more confidence to stand up for himself not in a confrontational "naughty" way just a no you don't treat me that way it'd help nip it in the bud so they know he can't be pushed over yknow? Sorry if I rambled just having a bit of a wobble thinking the poor boys trying so hard and I just wanna help him.

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JiltedJohnsJulie · 14/07/2018 07:52

Poor love that sounds horrible for him. Have you thought of sending him to the school where his friends went to?

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8FencingWire · 14/07/2018 07:55

Some sort of team sport. Or martial arts?

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FairyAnn · 14/07/2018 07:58

I was similar as a child and I joined a Saturday morning drama group. It was the best thing I ever did. Even if he's not into acting (many kids did things like costume or stage set up), it does wonders for confidence as everyone supports each other. The theatre community is wonderful like that

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Oliversmumsarmy · 14/07/2018 07:59

Drama lessons.

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Scootingthebreeze · 14/07/2018 08:06

I was just coming on to say drama lessons or martial arts and can see others have suggested them too. I was an exceptionally shy child until i began drama. It also gave me excellent skills for the future.

I know martial arts has similar benefits for confidence and discipline

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JiltedJohnsJulie · 14/07/2018 18:39

Agree with the martial arts, both have mine have done it. If he’s shy, coukd you or DH do a class with him?