Building Bravery One Small Step at a Time • Lesson • Lenny.com
Building Bravery One Small Step at a Time
A 60-minute parent workshop designed to teach the principles of gradual exposure and how to use a 'bravery ladder' to help children overcome fears and build resilience.
Explain the importance of starting with the lowest rung. Reiterate that each step should be challenging enough to feel like an accomplishment but not so overwhelming that it causes panic. Guide them towards their individual planning.
Celebrating Every Brave Step!
Why Celebrate?
Reinforces positive behavior
Motivates them to keep going
Builds confidence & self-esteem
Focuses on EFFORT & BRAVERY
Ways to Celebrate:
Verbal Praise
High-fives
Family Time
Sticker Charts
Pick Activities
Handshake
See your "Ways to Celebrate Courage" Handout!
Emphasize that the goal is effort and progress, not just immediate success. Discuss various ways to celebrate, moving beyond just material rewards.
Handling Bumps in the Road
Setbacks are
NORMAL!
What to do:
Adjust: Break the step down further.
Revisit: Go back to an easier step.
Reassure: Remind them of past bravery.
Praise Effort: Acknowledge trying.
Stay Calm: Your calm helps them regulate.
Be Patient: It's a journey, not a race.
Prepare parents for the reality of setbacks. Frame them as learning opportunities, not failures. Offer concrete, empathetic advice on how to respond when a child struggles or refuses to move forward on the ladder.
You've Got This!
Avoidance feeds fear; gradual exposure overcomes it.
Break fears into small, manageable "bravery steps."
Celebrate effort and small successes along the way.
You are your child's best bravery coach!
Any Questions?
Summarize the key takeaways and reinforce the power of this approach. Encourage questions and provide a final message of support.