By Cynthia Martin
We all love being around happy, upbeat people, so it’s only natural that we want the same for our kids. But here’s something powerful to remember: happiness is a skill, and like reading or riding a bike, it can be learned. And it starts earlier than you might think.
When your baby smiles, it’s often because you smiled first. Your cheers and claps at their first steps or first words aren’t just sweet moments — they’re shaping how they see themselves. That early joy builds confidence, courage, and curiosity. And it doesn’t stop in toddlerhood.
As your child grows, your influence continues.
Dinner time is a great moment to reflect on the good in everyone’s day. Go around the table and have each person share something positive, from acing a quiz to simply having a fun recess.
One creative family took it a step further. They had a plate that said, “You Are Special.” Anytime one of their children did something noteworthy, they ate off that plate that night. Then the family would share what the child had done and celebrate it — sometimes even just for something small, like remembering to look both ways before crossing the street. It made kindness and growth feel exciting and visible.
Positivity matters even more in the teen years.
Teens need to know that their efforts are seen — not just their results. Praise the work they put into a school project, even if the grade wasn’t perfect. Highlight a kind word their teacher shared at a parent-teacher conference. And yes, if they’re learning to drive, comment on the good habits as well as the ones that need work.
What you focus on grows.
When you regularly point out the positive, your child starts seeing the good in themselves — and in the world. They smile more because you smile more. They feel more confident because you believe in them. That mindset will carry them far, even into adulthood.
So don’t miss a chance to help your child grow into a happy, optimistic person. It doesn’t take grand gestures, just daily doses of attention, encouragement, and joy.
