Statements to Encourage Resilience

These statements and questions are designed to be simple and easy for children to understand, helping them learn about resilience in a positive and supportive way. At first it may feel a little unusual to use the language of values in daily conversations, but with practise it will soon become part of your family’s everyday talk.

Resilience in Facing Challenges:
"It’s okay to make mistakes — that’s how we learn and grow. You are being resilient!"
"I saw you kept trying even when it was tricky. That is what resilience looks like."
"You did not give up, even though it was hard. I am really proud of your resilience."

Resilience in Emotions:
"It is okay to feel upset. Taking a deep breath and carrying on shows resilience."
"You stayed calm even when things did not go your way. That is a strong and resilient choice."
"Being resilient means we can feel big emotions and still keep going — and that is what you did!"

Resilience in Learning:
"Sometimes learning something new takes time — and that is okay. Keep going, you are being resilient."
"You found another way when it did not work the first time. That is problem-solving with resilience!"
"Every time you practise, you get stronger and more confident. That is how resilience grows."

Resilience in Relationships:
"Even when you and your friend had a disagreement, you talked it through. That takes resilience."
"Trying again to make things right shows you are resilient and caring."
"It is brave to say sorry or to forgive someone. That is a resilient thing to do."

Questions to Encourage Reflection on Resilience
"What did you do today that was hard but you kept going?"
"Can you think of a time when you wanted to give up but did not? What helped you keep going?"
"How do you feel when you try something again after it did not work the first time?"
"What can we say to ourselves when things feel tricky or frustrating?"

Praise for Resilient Actions
"I noticed you kept practising even when it was difficult. That is real resilience!"
"You stayed calm and found a way through. You were being so resilient!"
"Thank you for giving it another go. That is the kind of resilience that helps you grow strong and confident."