Ask the Experts: Michele Kay

Q: How can parents instill conviction and courage in their children?

A: “Parents should provide an environment that gives children the opportunity to not only find their passion and independence but also to give support in a moment of failure,” says Michele Kay, learning enhancement coordinator at Gilmour Academy. “Don’t take that moment of failure away. Massage it in such a way that it becomes a learning experience. Failure may be the impetus for children to reassess and pick themselves up with courage. Push kids out of their comfort zone, learning from other cultures and having friends who are different from themselves. It’s exposure to other people’s reactions that develops a mindset to have convictions. We want them to fly when the day is done.”