Parenting Tips - Kong Academy | Empowering Kids Through Play https://www.kongacademy.org Where your children learn to overcome their obstacles. Want Your Kids to Move More? Come PLAY With Us! Wed, 04 Jun 2025 19:33:39 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.1 https://www.kongacademy.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/homescreen.jpg Parenting Tips - Kong Academy | Empowering Kids Through Play https://www.kongacademy.org 32 32 10 Elements In Nature To Use As Role Models When Teaching Respect To Kids https://www.kongacademy.org/teaching-kids-respect-with-nature/ https://www.kongacademy.org/teaching-kids-respect-with-nature/#respond Wed, 04 Jun 2025 19:30:29 +0000 https://www.kongacademy.org/?p=3823 Discover creative ways for teaching respect to kids using nature as a guide. From trees to ants, explore role models that spark empathy and wonder.

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10 Elements In Nature To Use As Role Models When Teaching Respect To Kids

Ever noticed how a kid can tromp through a flower bed like a baby Godzilla, then cry if someone messes up their LEGO tower?

Respect is tricky. Especially when you’re six and your idea of personal space is “whatever I’m currently touching.”

So how do we teach respect in a way that actually makes sense to kids? Not just the “say please and thank you” kind, but the deeper kind. One of the best ways of teaching respect to kids is by turning to the greatest teacher of all: nature. Through nature, children will learn the kind of respect that shows up when they don’t squish the worm or yank a dog’s tail or shout over their friend during a game.

Why Nature Works When Teaching Respect To Kids

Nature doesn’t hand out lectures or gold stars. It doesn’t nag. It doesn’t roll its eyes. What it does do is demonstrate balance, boundaries, cooperation, patience, and interdependence. These traits are all things kids need to understand in order to become respectful humans.

At Kong Academy, we believe that teaching respect to kids doesn’t happen in a vacuum. It happens through play, movement, imagination, and practice. Nature offers a powerful metaphor—and a literal playground—for building that respect in a way kids actually enjoy.

Let’s dive into the natural world and look at 10 powerful role models kids can learn from when it comes to respect.

1. Trees teach boundaries

Trees don’t grow overnight. They don’t push, shove, or compete for attention. They hold space. Teaching kids to respect someone else’s space—and their own—is easier when you can point to a tree and say, “See how it stands strong without taking over?”

Trees also teach us that growth takes time, and roots matter. That’s a great way to explain self-respect and personal growth to kids in a way they can grasp.

2. Ants teach teamwork and purpose

Watch ants long enough and you’ll see they’ve got it figured out. Everyone’s working toward a common goal. Nobody’s trying to be the boss. Ants model cooperation, shared effort, and taking responsibility.

When teaching respect to kids, ants are a great metaphor for group work, shared chores, or any time a kid wants to do it their way instead of working with the team.

3. Water teaches adaptability

Respect doesn’t mean being rigid. It means being able to adjust, compromise, and keep flowing when things change. Just like water.

Whether it’s a river carving a canyon or a puddle forming after rain, water adapts. It makes space. It moves around obstacles. Teaching respect to kids means helping them understand that being flexible and kind go hand-in-hand.

4. Bees teach community and consequence

Bees respect the hive. Every decision they make is for the good of the group. If a kid wants to take all the markers or push to the front of the line, bees are a great model to reflect on.

Bees also teach that actions have consequences. If you mess with a bee too much, you get stung. That natural balance—respect me, I’ll respect you—is something kids can grasp.

5. Mushrooms teach interconnectedness

A mushroom is never just a mushroom. Beneath it lies a vast mycelial network—one that supports trees, soil, and ecosystems. It’s a web of connection that teaches kids, you’re not alone. Your actions matter.

When teaching respect to kids, mushrooms can show how helping one part of a community helps the whole. Pull one up, and you disturb everything around it.

6. Birds teach listening and timing

Birds don’t all squawk at once. In a flock or a nest, each bird takes its turn. Some call. Some echo. Some listen.

Being respectful includes speaking nicely and  listening. Kids can learn from birds that silence has power, timing matters, and everyone gets their turn to speak.

7. Wolves teach leadership and loyalty

Wolves are often misunderstood. But in a healthy pack, there’s a clear structure, strong communication, and mutual protection. Each wolf plays a role, and they look out for one another.

Teaching respect to kids includes helping them understand leadership without dominance, loyalty without blind obedience, and how group dynamics work best when everyone contributes.

8. Mountains teach presence and patience

You don’t climb a mountain in a hurry. You don’t move one by shouting at it. Mountains are a lesson in stillness, strength, and respect for things bigger than us.

Kids can learn that respect sometimes means slowing down. Taking a breath. Recognizing limits. And honoring effort, not just outcomes.

9. Insects teach curiosity, not fear

Spiders, centipedes, bees—they tend to freak kids out. But they all serve a purpose, and many are surprisingly delicate.

When we teach kids to observe instead of squish, to ask questions instead of react, we help them develop respect for the unfamiliar. Curiosity builds empathy. And empathy is a foundation for respect.

10. The ocean teaches awe and responsibility

It’s vast. Mysterious. Powerful. And fragile. The ocean teaches kids that some things can’t be controlled—and must be protected.

Teaching respect to kids through the lens of environmental responsibility works best when they feel connected to what they’re protecting. That’s why Kong Academy encourages nature-based play and adventure: it builds love first, then responsibility.

Nature + Movement = Respect In Action

At Kong Academy, we don’t stop at stories or metaphors. We bring these lessons to life through movement. Because kids learn best when they move, sweat, and play.

Want to help your child embody what it feels like to be part of the jungle? Or flow like water? Start with these:

 Jungle Brain Break
Kids get to crouch, leap, balance, and roar as they travel through an imaginary jungle. Perfect for building body awareness, teamwork, and focus—all key parts of respect.

Underwater Indoor Adventure
This fun, fitness-packed video channels ocean energy while teaching coordination and resilience. Bonus: It’s a blast for screen time that actually helps kids grow.

Teaching Respect To Kids Starts With Wonder Not Rules

You can’t force a kid to be respectful. (Well, maybe for five seconds before it falls apart.)

But you can give them experiences that spark empathy, build awareness, and model respect from the inside out. Nature is one of our best allies in that mission.

At Kong Academy, we’re here to help kids become stronger, braver, kinder humans—through fun, games, and big movement. So next time you want to teach your child about respect, go outside. Look at the trees. Watch the ants. Feel the wind. Let the Earth be the teacher.

Because when kids learn to respect the world around them, they start to respect themselves—and each other.

Want more movement-based lessons like this? Subscribe to Kong Academy’s YouTube channel, or check out our after-school and summer camp programs. We help kids learn respect, responsibility, and resilience—while having a ton of fun.

Kong Academy Kids Club

Join Our Seattle Based Summer Camps​

GET Access to the ULTIMATE PLAY DATE PACKAGE (Value: $49) for FREE!

Coach Curt’s Top Gifts for Playtime Fun

7-Day Crystal Shard Adventure

Unleash your child’s potential with our 7-day crystal shard movement adventure!

Our Afterschool Programs

Curriculum that works

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Teaching Kids Patience By Using Nature As A Teacher https://www.kongacademy.org/teaching-kids-patience-by-using-nature-as-a-teacher/ https://www.kongacademy.org/teaching-kids-patience-by-using-nature-as-a-teacher/#respond Thu, 29 May 2025 13:25:47 +0000 https://www.kongacademy.org/?p=3809 Using nature as a teacher, Kong Academy helps kids develop patience and emotional regulation through play, movement, and outdoor problem-solving.

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Teaching Kids Patience By Using Nature As A Teacher

Ever try explaining “patience” to a 7-year-old in the middle of a meltdown because they have to wait a full 30 seconds for the iPad to load? Yeah, good luck with that.

Turns out, nature as a teacher may be the best thing we’ve got when it comes to patience—and kids need that kind of slow magic now more than ever. Especially because a lot of modern parenting is a game of instant everything—meals in minutes, on-demand shows, and answers from Alexa. But when it comes to helping kids build real-world life skills like emotional regulation and patience, there’s no shortcut.

That’s where nature steps in—no screens, no instant anything, just the original slow burn.

Patience, Grasshopper—Nature Doesn’t Rush & That’s The Point

Think about how long it takes a tree to grow. How a caterpillar has to hang out in goo before becoming a butterfly. Or how you can sit in a garden for 10 minutes and not a single flower blooms while you’re watching—yet come back next week, and boom, color explosion.

For kids, nature is the original slow TV. When kids hike, plant seeds, wait for bugs to crawl out, or build a stick fort that keeps collapsing… they’re learning to stay present, regulate frustration, and keep trying. That’s patience in slow motion.

This is exactly what happens in our summer camps, after-school programs, and YouTube videos—kids chase a challenge, fall down, try again, and stay curious. In our Summer Shark Escape Floor is Lava Game, they’ll race past sharks, hunt for treasure, and solve puzzles—all while getting a workout and stretching their focus, frustration tolerance, and teamwork muscles. Nature + play = patience in real-time.

What Nature Teaches Kids (Besides Just Patience)

Remember when summer meant scraped knees, climbing trees, and building forts out of nothing but sticks and wild ideas? That kind of unstructured, outdoor play shaped an entire generation’s creativity, confidence, and emotional resilience. But for many kids today, it’s not the norm.

Instead, childhood often happens indoors. Blame the screens. Blame the packed schedules. Blame the fact that fewer kids roam the neighborhood freely. But even though the world has changed, kids still crave outdoor adventure. Their brains and bodies still need it.

Nature is a full-on, research-backed learning environment. Sunshine boosts vitamin D and mood. Fresh air resets energy. And movement—especially unstructured, exploratory movement—helps kids regulate emotions, solve problems, and build social skills.

At Kong Academy, we’ve seen this play out firsthand. That’s why our camps are rooted in movement, curiosity, and outdoor exploration. We don’t just bring kids to a park and “let them play outside”—we guide them through adventures that help them grow.

Nature teaches:

  • Self-regulation: If you can’t control the weather, we teach kids to adapt.
  • Curiosity: Bugs, mud, clouds—there’s always something to wonder about.
  • Problem-solving: When the trail is blocked, we will figure it out.
  • Resilience: If the rain comes and there are wet socks. We don’t make it a big deal, we teach kids to keep going.

All of these are part of the SEL (Social Emotional Learning) toolkit we embed into all our programs. Just like with Crocodile Jungle Brain Break; it’s a full-body workout, animal adventure, and SEL lesson all rolled into one. As kids dodge crocodiles, meet jungle creatures, and move their bodies, they’re also practicing impulse control, patience, and resilience without even realizing it.

When kids explore outdoors—especially with friends—they’re building emotional and social muscles that screens—even the best ones (yep, including ours)—just can’t replicate. Nature teaches through experience, and that lived-in learning sticks in a way videos alone never can.

Why Kids Need To Experience Patience, Not Just Hear About It

Patience isn’t just a virtue—it’s a foundational skill that helps kids navigate frustration, delay gratification, and build better relationships over time. Unfortunately, you can’t tell a kid to “be patient” and expect it to stick. 

But when they:

  • Build a bug trap and wait…
  • Try to catch a frog that keeps jumping away…
  • Plant something and check on it every day…

they start to feel what waiting-with-purpose feels like. They build the tolerance for frustration. They get the reward of sticking with something.

That’s what we call real learning. And it’s why nature is such a powerful (and underused) teacher.

Nature Teaches Kids Patience In Ways We Can’t Script Or Speed Up. 

Every slow-growing plant, delayed result, or unexpected detour is an opportunity for them to flex emotional regulation and experience what real patience feels like in their bodies. This is why using nature as a teacher works so well—it gives kids space to struggle and self-correct, without shame.

In nature, kids also learn they’re not in control of everything. You can’t make the clouds move faster or rush a butterfly out of its cocoon. You can’t rush the sunset. You can’t make a squirrel come closer. You can’t force a tree to bloom just because you’re ready to see flowers. That feeling—of letting go and adapting—is significant. And for kids used to instant everything, it’s a total nervous system reset.

These moments of waiting, watching, and wondering build executive function—without a single worksheet. Nature trains focus, self-control, and persistence, all the things we try to teach in the classroom but that stick better when learned through movement and adventure.

This gentle “lesson in letting go” helps kids loosen their grip on control, which is often at the root of impatience. We let kids experience the discomfort of things taking time within the safety and structure of games. Whether it’s watching for the right moment to act or building something together as a team, they learn that good things actually do come to those who wait.

Patience Builds Executive Function (Without A Lecture)

Waiting in line might feel like a waste of time—but neurologically, it’s anything but. When kids have to wait, pause, or try again, they’re actually strengthening their executive function—the brain’s control center for planning, focus, memory, and impulse control.

At Kong Academy, we don’t have kids sit still to learn patience. We give them games that require patience in order to succeed. When they’re solving a movement puzzle, building a team strategy, or navigating a challenge together, their brains are working just as hard as their bodies.

Nature Rewards Observation & Stillness

One of the coolest things about nature as a teacher is that sometimes, nature rewards the still and the quiet, it doesn’t always reward the fastest kid or the loudest voice. Sometimes, the kid who sees the hidden snail, who notices the first crack in a seed pod, who spots a shy animal or notices the tiniest flower sprouting from the dirt? That kid learns that slowing down is actually a superpower.

This flips the usual dynamic on its head. And for kids who are used to instant feedback, it’s an important shift. Stillness becomes valuable. Slowing down becomes exciting. And over time, that appreciation for small moments becomes a practice, not just a coincidence.

At Kong Academy, we build this kind of learning into our afterschool and summer camp experiences. Through obstacle courses, imaginary adventures, and teamwork games, your child will build patience, not because we told them to, but because they practiced it without even realizing it.

Ready to get your kids moving, exploring, and learning the kind of skills no screen can teach?
Join us this summer at Kong Academy—where nature, movement, and fun turn everyday play into lifelong lessons.

Explore our Summer Camps
Watch our YouTube Adventures

Kong Academy Kids Club

Join Our Seattle Based Summer Camps​

GET Access to the ULTIMATE PLAY DATE PACKAGE (Value: $49) for FREE!

Coach Curt’s Top Gifts for Playtime Fun

7-Day Crystal Shard Adventure

Unleash your child’s potential with our 7-day crystal shard movement adventure!

Our Afterschool Programs

Curriculum that works

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Why Is My Kid Mean To His Friends? (And How Can We Help?) https://www.kongacademy.org/why-is-my-kid-mean-to-his-friends/ Tue, 08 Apr 2025 22:04:24 +0000 https://www.kongacademy.org/?p=3658 You might be worried when you see your child being mean to their friends. Find out how your child can understand the consequences of their actions.

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Why Is My Kid Mean To His Friends

Ever watch your kid shove a friend over a LEGO and think, Oh no, I’m raising a tiny supervillain? Or maybe they’ve said something so cutting on the playground that you had to do a double take—like, did that actually come out of my sweet child’s mouth? If so, take a deep breath. You’re not alone. And more importantly, your kid isn’t broken.

Being mean—especially in childhood—is something all humans wrestle with at some point. It’s part of how we figure out social rules, power dynamics, and, well… life. But where does this behavior actually come from? And when do we finally outgrow it?

Why Are Humans Mean In The First Place?

Meanness isn’t some weird defect in our kids. It’s wired into us as part of our evolution. Humans are social creatures, but we didn’t get here by just being nice all the time. Our ancestors had to compete for resources, defend themselves, and establish their place in the group. That survival instinct? It’s still in us—just playing out in preschool arguments instead of hunting grounds. 

Kids, much like adults, navigate social situations by testing behaviors and seeing what happens. Sometimes, those tests involve pushing boundaries—literally and figuratively. An impulsive grab, a harsh word, a power struggle over a toy. 

They’re figuring out where they fit, what they can get away with, and how their actions affect others. The prefrontal cortex—the part of the brain that helps regulate impulses and think through consequences—is still under construction, meaning they’re acting on instinct more than logic.

But is it just a phase? Mostly, yes. Research from the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence suggests that as kids grow, they develop stronger emotional regulation and a greater capacity for empathy. However, the lessons they learn along the way—from their parents, teachers, and peers—shape how quickly they get there. Left unchecked, patterns of meanness can solidify into habits. 

That’s where our role comes in: guiding them toward healthier social skills before those habits stick. 

What Causes A Child To Be Mean?

Not all meanness is created equal. Some kids act out because they lack social skills. Others are overwhelmed by big emotions they don’t know how to process. Then there are kids who act mean as a way to gain power or attention, often mimicking behaviors they’ve seen at home or at school.

A child who struggles with impulse control may blurt out hurtful words without intending harm. Another who feels insecure might try to tear others down to lift themselves up. Stress at home—divorce, a new sibling, academic pressure—can spill over into friendships, making kids more irritable or aggressive. It’s not about labeling kids as “bad” but understanding why they’re acting this way. 

When Your Child Is the One Being Mean

If your child is struggling with kindness, the instinct might be to scold, punish, or force an apology. But meanness isn’t “fixed” by simply telling a child to stop—it’s addressed by helping them understand why their actions hurt others and giving them the tools to do better. At Kong Academy, we use play as a vehicle for social learning. 

  • Games like obstacle courses and teamwork challenges create natural opportunities for kids to practice fairness, patience, and cooperation in a way that sticks.

Rather than just saying, “That was mean. Say sorry,” try coaching them through the moment. “I saw you grab that toy. What happened? How do you think your friend felt? What could you do differently next time?” 

  • Kids need guidance to connect the dots between their actions and their impact on others. And most importantly, they need chances to practice kindness—because it’s a skill, just like riding a bike.

When Your Child Is on the Receiving End of Meanness

Have you ever noticed your child repeatedly coming home upset after spending time with a particular friend? Many parents struggle with this situation—watching their child experience ongoing conflicts, yet unsure of how to step in. 

Parents often share stories of their child returning from playdates feeling hurt and confused, describing incidents where a friend was unkind or dismissive. The issue wasn’t a one-time misunderstanding—it was a pattern. 

When a child is consistently unkind, it often reflects a lack of boundaries or consequences at home. Which raises an even tougher question: What do you do when your kid is on the receiving end of meanness?

It’s a painful position to be in—your child wants to play, but they’re hurt every time they do.

  • Teaching kids how to handle mean behavior without simply telling them to “ignore it” is crucial. Ignoring doesn’t teach resilience—it teaches passivity. Instead, help your child set boundaries. “If someone keeps being mean to you, you don’t have to keep playing with them.” Role-playing different responses can also build confidence: “If she says something hurtful, what could you say back? How can you stand up for yourself?” 

If the issue involves a close friend’s child, an honest but gentle conversation might be needed. “Hey, I’ve noticed our kids aren’t getting along lately. Have you seen this, too?” Approaching it as a mutual problem-solving conversation rather than an accusation keeps the door open for resolution.

The Frenemy Effect: When A Friendship Turns Sour

Some kids aren’t consistently mean, but their kindness comes in waves. One day they’re best friends; the next, they’re being cruel. This “frenemy” cycle can be confusing for young kids, who may not understand why a friend is suddenly treating them differently. Often, these shifts happen due to competitiveness, jealousy, or changing social dynamics—perhaps a child is feeling left out or insecure and lashes out as a defense mechanism.

Helping kids recognize the signs of a healthy friendship is key 

  • If a friend regularly makes them feel bad about themselves, excludes them, or is only kind when it’s convenient, it might not be a friendship worth keeping. Teach your child to ask themselves, “Do I feel good about myself when I’m with this person?” If the answer is no more often than yes, it’s a sign they may need to step back.

At Kong Academy, we encourage teamwork-based activities that show kids what real friendship feels like—mutual support, encouragement, and cooperation. When kids experience positive social interactions, they start to recognize when something feels off in a friendship. 

We also help children develop the confidence to walk away from toxic relationships and build connections with friends who truly value them. 

Raising Kinder Kids, One Playtime At A Time

Being mean to children is a sign that they are still learning, not that they have failed. 

With patience, practice, and the right experiences, they develop empathy, self-control, and kindness. At Kong Academy, we believe the best way to teach these skills is through play—where teamwork, problem-solving, and emotional intelligence happen naturally.

Your kid isn’t mean. They’re learning. And with the right tools and guidance, they’ll grow into the kind of friend you hope for them to be.





Kong Academy Kids Club

Join Our Seattle Based Summer Camps​

GET Access to the ULTIMATE PLAY DATE PACKAGE (Value: $49) for FREE!

Coach Curt’s Top Gifts for Playtime Fun

7-Day Crystal Shard Adventure

Unleash your child’s potential with our 7-day crystal shard movement adventure!

Our Afterschool Programs

Curriculum that works

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My Kid Is Embarrassed Because They’re Uncoordinated, How Can I Help? https://www.kongacademy.org/my-kid-is-embarrassed-because-theyre-uncoordinated-how-can-i-help/ Wed, 02 Apr 2025 19:36:03 +0000 https://www.kongacademy.org/?p=3638 You can help your kid who is embarrassed because they're uncoordinated. Coordination is a skill that can be built with practice and patience.

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embarrassed uncoordinated kid

First off, let’s talk about the elephant in the room—your kid is embarrassed, and you’re not sure how to help. 

If you’ve ever watched them fumble a simple game of catch, trip over their own feet, or struggle through gym class like they’re auditioning for a slapstick comedy, you might have had a moment of panic. 

Is this normal? Am I a terrible parent for being worried? 

Maybe they’ve come home red-faced after gym class, or refused to join a game at recess because they’re tired of being laughed at. 

You are not alone, and your kid isn’t the only one who’s ever felt like they have two left feet. Maybe you remember being in their shoes—staring down a soccer ball, unsure whether to kick it or run away. 

The good news? Coordination is something that can be built over time, and more importantly, confidence can grow alongside it. There’s a way forward—and it starts with making movement fun, not frustrating.

Are You Born Uncoordinated?

Some kids seem to glide through sports like they were born for it, while others trip over air and struggle to catch a ball the size of their head. It’s easy to think coordination is something you either have or don’t, but that’s not how it works. 

Coordination isn’t a talent—it’s a skill. Just like reading or riding a bike, it takes practice, patience, and a whole lot of trial and error. The brain is amazingly adaptable—neuroplasticity allows kids to build new motor pathways just like they build new knowledge in school. 

The best way to help them improve? Get them moving, playing, and having fun (yes, fun—not a tedious training session that makes them dread physical activity).

The Emotional Toll Of Feeling Like A Klutz 

When kids struggle with coordination, the hardest part isn’t always the physical challenge—it’s the embarrassment. Nobody wants to be the last one picked for a team, the one who falls during a relay race, or the one who gets laughed at when they miss an easy shot. And if that embarrassment builds up, kids may start avoiding activities altogether. The real goal here is to give them the confidence to keep trying, not just help them move better.

What Causes Poor Coordination In Kids?

There are a few reasons a child might struggle with coordination:

  • Lack of experience with movement-based play (kids who spend more time in front of screens might not have developed motor skills through play)
  • Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD), also called Dyspraxia (this is a diagnosable condition that affects motor skills, but it doesn’t mean a child can’t improve)
  • Premature birth (some preterm babies may take longer to develop coordination)
  • Low muscle tone or strength (which can be improved with activity!)

If your child’s struggles seem extreme or are interfering with daily activities, it might be worth checking in with a pediatrician or occupational therapist. But for most kids, regular movement, encouragement, and practice can make a huge difference.

What Can You Do?

The key is to meet your child where they are—without pressure or comparisons. Here’s how:

  • Make it fun: Games, challenges, and movement-based play are key. At Kong Academy, we use games like The Floor Is Lava and obstacle courses to help kids build coordination in a way that feels like adventure, not exercise.
  • Start small: If a child struggles with catching, don’t start with a baseball—start with a balloon or a scarf that moves slowly through the air, giving them time to react.
  • Encourage, don’t critique: Instead of pointing out mistakes, celebrate effort. “Wow, you almost got it! Let’s try again!”
  • Get creative with movement: Tug-of-war strengthens muscles, jump rope builds coordination, and climbing play structures improves spatial awareness.
  • Try activities that improve coordination without pressure: Think martial arts, dance, swimming, or even parkour-based programs (like Kong!) where kids can move in ways that feel natural.

The Best Sports For Kids Who Struggle With Coordination

If your child dreads gym class but wants to be active, here are some great options:

  • Martial arts (karate, taekwondo, jiu-jitsu): Builds body awareness, balance, and control
  • Swimming: A low-impact way to improve coordination without worrying about tripping
  • Rock climbing or indoor climbing gyms: Encourages problem-solving and full-body coordination
  • Dance or gymnastics: Improves rhythm, flexibility, and strength
  • Parkour (yes, really!): A fantastic way to build agility, confidence, and movement skills in a fun, low-pressure environment

Coordination Is A Skill—And Skills Can Be Learned

Your child might not wake up tomorrow suddenly moving with Olympic-level grace, but that’s okay. Every small improvement—every time they catch a ball, climb a little higher, or run without tripping—is a step forward.

And if they need an extra boost? After school programs like Kong Academy are designed to help kids build these skills through movement and play. Because at the end of the day, the goal is giving kids the confidence to keep trying, to have fun, and to know that they are capable of more than they think.

So, let’s get them moving!

Kong Academy Kids Club

Join Our Seattle Based Summer Camps​

GET Access to the ULTIMATE PLAY DATE PACKAGE (Value: $49) for FREE!

Coach Curt’s Top Gifts for Playtime Fun

7-Day Crystal Shard Adventure

Unleash your child’s potential with our 7-day crystal shard movement adventure!

Our Afterschool Programs

Curriculum that works

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15 Rainy Day Activities To Get Your Kid Moving (Without Losing Your Sanity) https://www.kongacademy.org/15-rainy-day-activities-to-get-your-kid-moving/ Wed, 26 Feb 2025 23:52:09 +0000 https://www.kongacademy.org/?p=3482 Rainy days don't need to mean bored kids and stressed out parents. Here are 15 activities to get them moving and save your sanity.

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baking is a good rainy day activity

Rain, Rain, Go Away… Or at Least Give Me a Break! 

We’ve all been there—your kid is bouncing off the walls, the weather is a soggy disaster, and you’d rather not brave the germ-infested chaos of the trampoline park. What now?

Luckily, there are tons of ways to keep your kid engaged, active, and entertained—even when you’re trapped inside. Whether they need to burn energy, get creative, or channel their inner chef, there are 15 rainy day activities to get your kid moving (without losing your sanity). 

And when you need a break (or let’s be honest, when they need a new distraction), Kong Academy’s YouTube channel is packed with movement-based adventures that turn your living room into a ninja dojo, superhero training ground, or jungle expedition.

Let’s dive in before the couch cushions become a wrestling ring.

1. Superhero Training Camp (Movement + Imagination)

Your mission: Train for battle against the ultimate villain! Set up an obstacle course with pillows, tunnels (hello, couch cushions), and chairs. Have them crawl, jump, and roll through superhero training. Want a pro guide? Check out Kong Academy’s Superhero Training!

By the time they finish saving the day, they’ll be ready for a snack break.

2. Bake Something Fun (Creativity + Fine Motor Skills)

If they’re going to make a mess anyway, might as well turn it into a snack! Let them knead dough, stir batter, and roll out cookies—great for fine motor skills and patience. Try homemade pretzels (rolling + twisting!) or banana muffins (mashing + mixing!).

Bonus: They burn energy and you get fresh-baked treats. Win-win.

3. Indoor Parkour Adventure (Movement + Problem-Solving)

Transform your living room into a real-life action scene! Challenge your kid to jump, climb, and balance their way through a parkour obstacle course made of cushions, chairs, and tape lines. Want a fun guided adventure? Try Kong Academy’s Ninja Training for cool moves and challenges.

Extra challenge: Add a “mission”—rescue a stuffed animal or deliver a top-secret message before time runs out!

4. Dance Party Battle (Movement + Coordination)

Crank up the tunes and get ready to bust a move! Try freeze dance, copycat dancing (one person leads, the other copies), or even a full-on family dance-off. Want guided fun? Follow Kong Academy’s movement-based videos for extra energy.

No judgment—parents who join in get bonus cool points.

5. The Floor is Lava (Movement + Strategy)

Pillows and furniture are the only safe zones! Have your child move across the room without touching the “lava.” Level it up by adding challenges like hopping on one foot or balancing a book on their head.

Just make sure they don’t push the cat into the lava.

6. Spy Mission Impossible (Problem-Solving + Movement)

Secret agents needed! Tape yarn or streamers across a hallway to create a laser maze. Your kid must crawl, jump, and sneak through without touching the “lasers.” Add a mission: Retrieve a stolen treasure (aka a stuffed animal).

Stealth training complete—now if only they could be this quiet all the time…

7. Giant Puzzle Challenge (Problem-Solving + Fine Motor Skills)

Calling all puzzle masters! Pick a big jigsaw puzzle and race against the clock to see how fast you can finish. If they’re younger, go for floor puzzles with large pieces.

This one builds patience… which you’ll need for the next activity.

8. Make a Story Fort (Creativity + Calm Play)

Every good adventure needs a hideout! Build a cozy reading fort with blankets, pillows, and fairy lights. Then, pick out your favorite books or listen to an audiobook while snuggled up inside.

The quieter they are, the longer you let them stay up past bedtime.

9. Animal Movement Game (Movement + Coordination)

Can you move like a jungle animal? Call out different animals, and your kid has to mimic them—hop like a frog, crawl like a bear, waddle like a penguin.

Prepare for some hilarious interpretations.

10. Balloon Volleyball (Hand-Eye Coordination + Movement)

A balloon, a string, and a whole lot of fun! Hang a string or tape across a doorway and bat a balloon back and forth without letting it touch the ground. Want more fun? Use pool noodles as paddles!

No broken lamps = parent victory.

11. DIY Escape Room (Problem-Solving + Teamwork)

Trapped in the living room—can you escape? Give your kid clues and puzzles to solve in order to “unlock” a hidden prize. Set a timer for extra intensity.

Great for future detectives and mastermind villains alike.

12. Sock Skating (Balance + Coordination)

Turn your floor into an ice rink! Grab some thick socks, find a smooth floor, and let them glide, spin, and racelike ice skaters.

Gold medal for creativity, silver medal for not wiping out.

13. Shadow Boxing or Karate Moves (Movement + Strength)

Channel that extra energy into action moves! Let kids punch, kick, and block like their favorite martial arts heroes. For guided training, check out Kong Academy’s action-packed workout videos.

Note: Walls, lamps, and siblings are NOT opponents.

14. Indoor Relay Races (Speed + Agility)

Hallway Olympics! Try races with hopping, crab walking, or balancing a spoon with a ball. Time their best runs for added competition.

They’ll sleep well after this one. You’re welcome.

15. YouTube Adventure Workouts (Movement + Storytelling)

When in doubt, let Kong Academy take over! Their movement-based adventure videos turn screen time into active play. Subscribe here and let the games begin!

Survive & Thrive Indoors

Rainy days don’t have to mean bored kids and stressed-out parents. With a mix of high-energy games, hands-on activities, and movement challenges, your little ones can burn energy, learn something new, and (hopefully) crash into bed early.

Need a break? Let Kong Academy’s YouTube channel handle the fun!

Subscribe now and turn screen time into active time!

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How To Teach Respect To Kids & Leading By Example https://www.kongacademy.org/how-to-teach-respect-to-kids-leading-by-example/ Thu, 23 Jan 2025 16:49:34 +0000 https://www.kongacademy.org/?p=3323 Teach your child the value of respect with practical tips and examples. Kong Academy is here to help.

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kids showing respect for each other

Respect is a cornerstone of positive behavior and healthy relationships, making it one of the most valuable lessons you can teach children. By learning how to respect themselves and others, kids develop crucial social skills that help them navigate challenges, build strong bonds, and create a more inclusive world.

At Kong Academy, we believe that respect is more than just a polite response. We teach and encourage our families to see respect as an attitude of kindness, empathy, and understanding that begins at home and in the classroom.

Why Learning Respect Is An Essential Life Skill

Respect is the foundation of a well-rounded individual’s character. When children learn respect, they become better equipped to handle conflicts, build stronger relationships, and contribute positively to society. These skills certainly benefit their childhood years but also shape their interactions as adults, influencing how they treat others in personal and professional spaces.

Build Strong & Meaningful Relationships with Family and Friends

Respect begins at home, where children first learn to interact with family members. When parents emphasize respectful communication—such as listening without interrupting or valuing each person’s opinion—children internalize these behaviors and mirror them in their friendships. For instance, a child who practices respect is more likely to resolve disputes through dialogue instead of arguments.

Respect encourages reciprocity. When children show respect to others, they’re more likely to receive it in return, creating a cycle of mutual trust and understanding. For example, saying “please” and “thank you” not only improves their interpersonal interactions but also fosters goodwill in their social circles. Over time, these habits become second nature, laying the groundwork for healthy, respectful relationships.

Helps Navigate Social Situations

Respect is a vital tool for navigating various social settings, from the playground to the classroom. Children who understand the importance of respect are better equipped to handle group dynamics, follow instructions, and work collaboratively with peers. For instance, a child who respects their teacher is more likely to pay attention in class and complete assignments on time, creating a positive learning environment. They will also treat the other school staff kindly, regardless of their position. 

In unfamiliar settings, respect acts as a bridge. When children meet new people or encounter different cultural practices, respect helps them approach these situations with an open mind and a willingness to learn. This adaptability boosts their confidence and allows them to thrive in diverse environments, preparing them for future challenges like entering the workforce or engaging with global communities.

Encourages Empathy & Understanding of Others

Respect and empathy go hand in hand. Teaching children to respect others involves helping them understand and value perspectives different from their own. For instance, encouraging kids to imagine how someone else might feel in a given situation nurtures their emotional intelligence and ability to connect with others on a deeper level.

This skill is particularly important in a world that’s increasingly diverse. When children learn to appreciate differences in opinions, backgrounds, and lifestyles, they’re less likely to judge others unfairly. Instead, they will approach interactions with curiosity and compassion, creating more inclusive communities. This empathetic mindset can also help reduce bullying and discrimination, as children who respect others are more likely to stand up for their peers. 

How Kids Can Start Learning Respect

Teaching respect is a continuous process that requires intentional guidance and reinforcement. By breaking down respect into actionable steps, parents and teachers can help children understand and practice it in their daily lives.

Understanding the Concept of Respect

For many children, respect begins with the golden rule: “Treat others the way you want to be treated.” This simple yet powerful principle helps children recognize the impact of their actions and words on others. For example, asking them how they’d feel if someone ignored their opinion can help them understand why it’s important to listen attentively.

Books, movies, and role-playing exercises are also excellent tools for teaching respect. For instance, reading a story about a character who learns to appreciate others’ differences can spark meaningful conversations about inclusion and kindness. Role-playing scenarios, such as pretending to be a customer and a cashier, allow children to practice respectful behaviors in a fun and engaging way.

Different Is Okay

Children often encounter differences, whether in cultural traditions, physical appearances, or personal preferences. Teaching them that these differences are not just okay but valuable helps build a more accepting mindset. Parents can introduce children to various cuisines, festivals, music, or languages, explaining how these unique elements enrich the world.

Discussions about fairness and inclusion can also help. For instance, if a child notices someone being excluded from a game, use the opportunity to discuss how everyone deserves respect, regardless of their abilities, interests, or cultural backgrounds. These conversations encourage children to embrace diversity and treat others with kindness, even when they don’t fully understand their perspective.

Be Polite

Politeness is a fundamental aspect of respect that children can start practicing early. Simple actions, like saying “please” when asking for something or “thank you” when receiving help, teach children the importance of acknowledging others’ efforts. Over time, these small acts of courtesy become habits that shape how they interact with others.

Parents and teachers can reinforce politeness through praise and encouragement. For example, if a child says “excuse me” before interrupting, acknowledge their effort to be respectful. Celebrating these moments not only boosts the child’s confidence but also motivates them to continue practicing respectful behaviors in different settings.

How Parents & Teachers Can Model Respect

Children are keen observers, often mimicking the behaviors they see in adults. Regardless of different parenting styles, parents can instill respectfulness by modeling respect. Teachers, too, play a crucial role in demonstrating respect through their actions and words.

Speaking Kindly

The language adults use sets the tone for how children communicate. For example, addressing children calmly and respectfully, even when they make mistakes, teaches them that it’s possible to correct behavior without being harsh. Phrases like “Let’s try this again” or “How can we fix this together?” model constructive and respectful communication.

Additionally, how adults speak to others—whether it’s a waiter, a neighbor, or a colleague—reinforces the importance of treating everyone with dignity. These everyday interactions serve as powerful examples of how respect creates positive and cooperative relationships.

Active Listening

One of the simplest ways to show respect is by listening attentively. When parents and teachers give children their full attention, they convey that the child’s thoughts and feelings matter. For example, kneeling down to a child’s level during a conversation shows engagement and empathy, making the child feel valued.

Active listening also involves asking thoughtful questions and responding genuinely. For instance, if a child is upset about a disagreement with a friend, take the time to understand their perspective instead of offering quick solutions. This approach not only strengthens your bond with the child but also teaches them to listen and respond respectfully in their own interactions.

Demonstrating Empathy

Empathy is the foundation of respect, and adults can model it through small but impactful gestures. For example, acknowledging a child’s frustration during a challenging task and offering encouragement shows understanding and support. Similarly, discussing how others might feel in specific situations—such as being left out of a game—helps children develop a more compassionate mindset.

By consistently modeling empathy, parents and teachers create a nurturing environment of reciprocal respect where kindness thrives. This not only benefits children’s immediate relationships but also shapes how they approach others throughout their lives.

Activities To Start Building Respectful Habits

Practical activities provide children with opportunities to apply what they’ve learned about respect in meaningful ways. These hands-on experiences make abstract concepts more tangible and enjoyable.

The Respect Jar

The Respect Jar is an engaging activity that encourages children to recognize and celebrate respectful actions. Each time a child demonstrates respect—such as sharing a toy or helping a sibling—write it down on a slip of paper and place it in the jar. At the end of the week, review the notes together and discuss the positive impact of these actions.

This activity not only reinforces respectful behavior but also helps children see the cumulative effect of small acts of kindness. Over time, it fosters a sense of pride and motivation to continue practicing respect in their daily lives.

Team Sports

Team sports are an excellent way to teach respect through collaboration. Whether it’s soccer, basketball, or volleyball, children learn to listen to their teammates, follow rules, and celebrate group achievements. For example, respecting the coach’s instructions or supporting a teammate during a game teaches children the value of cooperation and mutual respect.

These lessons extend beyond the field, helping children develop skills like teamwork and communication that are essential in every aspect of life. They also learn to handle competition gracefully, respecting opponents regardless of the outcome.

Group Projects

Group projects encourage children to practice respect in collaborative settings. Assigning specific roles—such as a leader, note-taker, or timekeeper—ensures that everyone’s contributions are valued and appreciated. For example, if one child excels at drawing, they might take the lead in creating visuals for a project, while another focuses on research.

By working together, children learn to respect each other’s strengths and communicate effectively, reinforcing the importance of teamwork and shared responsibility. These experiences prepare them for future collaborative environments, such as school projects or workplace teams.

If you are confused as to how to teach respect to your child, know that it is an ongoing process that requires consistent effort and modeling. At Kong Academy, we specialize in programs designed to empower kids with the tools they need to grow emotionally and socially. Visit Kong Academy today and take the first step in building a brighter, emotionally balanced future for your child! 

By helping them understand what respect looks like, encouraging polite behavior, and leading by example, you’re giving your children the tools to build strong relationships and navigate life with empathy and kindness.

As you foster respect in your child, the next step is to teach communication skills—another cornerstone of healthy relationships and positive behavior. These skills will empower your child to express themselves effectively while valuing others’ perspectives.

If you’re in the Seattle metro, we offer summer camps and after school programs designed to empower kids and infuse their sense of independence. Contact us today to learn more.

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Embrace The Season By Teaching Kids The Power Of Sharing  https://www.kongacademy.org/embrace-the-season-by-teaching-kids-the-power-of-sharing/ Thu, 09 Jan 2025 16:50:15 +0000 https://www.kongacademy.org/?p=3268 Sharing is an important skill for children to develop. It will help them develop compassion, build friendships and empathy.

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The power of sharing

Sharing is a fundamental life skill that helps children develop strong relationships and grow into compassionate, thoughtful adults. Whether it’s sharing toys in the classroom or helping a sibling with chores at home, learning the value of giving and sharing with others shapes a child’s ability to connect with others.

Why Is Sharing Important for Kids?

Teaching children about sharing is more than a social nicety; it’s a crucial step in helping them understand their place in the community and develop vital skills. Children who learn to share grow into empathetic, cooperative adults capable of building strong bonds. Here’s how sharing contributes to their overall growth:

Builds Social Skills + Friendships

Sharing with others lays the foundation for healthy social interactions. When children share toys or materials, they learn to navigate social dynamics, such as taking turns, compromising, and resolving conflicts. These experiences not only build social skills but also help children form and maintain meaningful friendships.

By encouraging children to share, you’re helping them see the value of collaboration. They begin to understand that relationships thrive on mutual give-and-take, creating a strong basis for lifelong connections.

Teaches Empathy & the Needs of Others

When a child offers a friend a piece of their favorite snack or lets someone borrow their crayons, they’re engaging in an act of empathy. Sharing requires children to consider how others feel, promoting a deeper understanding of the needs of others.

This awareness cultivates kindness and reduces selfish behavior, teaching children that their actions can positively impact those around them. Over time, this creates a sense of responsibility to contribute to the well-being of their community.

Develops Personal Growth

Sharing challenges children to step outside their comfort zones and think beyond their immediate desires. It fosters self-discipline, patience, and resilience as they learn to navigate moments of frustration or disappointment.

As children grow, the knowledge of sharing instills confidence in their ability to engage with others and strengthens their moral character. They develop a sense of fairness and equity that extends into other areas of their lives, from teamwork in school to acts of service in adulthood.

Strategies for Teaching Sharing

Teaching children how to share requires intentionality and practice. Here are some effective strategies to encourage sharing while keeping the experience enjoyable and stress-free:

Practice Taking Turns

Taking turns is one of the easiest ways to introduce the concept of sharing. Whether you’re playing a board game or passing around a toy, structured turn-taking teaches children that everyone gets a fair chance.

Start by modeling this behavior yourself. For example, you can say, “It’s your turn to play with the blocks now, and then it will be Jamie’s turn.” Consistent practice reinforces patience and helps children feel secure that their needs will also be met.

Role-Playing Scenarios

Role-playing provides a safe space for children to explore sharing without the pressure of real-life consequences. Create simple scenarios where they can practice sharing and discuss how it feels.

For example, pretend one child wants to borrow a toy. Ask, “How would you feel if someone shared their toy with you?” and guide them in responding with kindness. This helps them understand the emotional impact of their actions and reinforces the idea of sharing as a positive experience.

Setting Clear Expectations

Children thrive when they know what’s expected of them. Clearly explain why sharing with others is important and what behaviors you hope to see. Use phrases like, “In our home, we share so everyone feels included,” or, “At school, we take turns to be fair.”

Consistency is key. Praise them when they meet these expectations, reinforcing that their efforts contribute to a sense of happiness for everyone involved.

Fun Classroom Activities to Promote Sharing

Classroom activities are an excellent way to introduce the concept of sharing in a fun, engaging environment. These activities not only teach valuable lessons but also foster a strong sense of community among children.

Sharing Circles

Sharing circles encourage children to openly discuss and exchange items or ideas. For example, children can bring a favorite book or toy to share with the group, explaining why it’s special to them.

This activity helps children develop social skills by learning to listen, express themselves, and appreciate the contributions of others. It also creates a collaborative environment where sharing feels natural and rewarding.

Fundraising Projects

Engaging children in fundraising projects teaches them the joy of giving back. Organize activities like a bake sale or a charity drive where children contribute their time, effort, or belongings to support a cause.

These experiences show children that sharing extends beyond personal interactions—it’s about making a difference in their community. They learn that small acts of kindness can have a big impact, reinforcing the knowledge of sharing.

Art Projects

Collaborative art projects, such as creating a mural or group collage, encourage children to share materials like paint, paper, and markers.

This activity not only fosters creativity but also teaches children to work together and appreciate each other’s contributions. By sharing resources, they learn to respect others and find joy in collective accomplishments.

How Parents Can Encourage Giving and Sharing

Parents play a vital role in nurturing a child’s ability to share. Your everyday actions and attitudes can shape how your child views the idea of sharing. Here are some ways you can encourage this behavior at home:

Be a Role Model & Lead by Example

Children learn by observing you. When you share with others—whether it’s lending a neighbor a tool or helping a friend—you’re demonstrating the importance of generosity.

Involve your child in these acts of giving. For instance, say, “Let’s bake some cookies to share with Grandma,” or, “Would you like to help me donate these clothes?” These moments teach them that sharing creates joy and strengthens relationships.

Praise Efforts

Acknowledging your child’s attempts to share reinforces their positive behavior. Be specific with your praise, such as, “I loved how you let your friend play with your toy car. That was very kind of you.”

This feedback helps children associate sharing with feelings of pride and accomplishment, encouraging them to continue.

Read Books About Sharing

Books are a wonderful way to introduce the concept of sharing in an engaging and relatable way. Stories like “The Rainbow Fish” or “Should I Share My Ice Cream?” illustrate the benefits of sharing through memorable characters and situations.

Reading together also provides opportunities to discuss the themes of the book and connect them to real-life experiences, deepening your child’s understanding of the idea of sharing.

Teaching children the value of sharing with others is an essential part of their journey toward becoming empathetic, socially adept individuals. From practicing turn-taking to engaging in fundraising projects, there are countless ways to make learning about sharing both fun and meaningful.

As a parent or teacher, your guidance plays a pivotal role in fostering a sense of happiness, connection, and personal growth in children. By modeling generosity, setting clear expectations, and celebrating their efforts, you can help them embrace the joy of giving and build stronger relationships with those around them.

Contact Kong Academy to learn more about how to inspire generosity and cultivate lifelong skills for your children or students.

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16 Growth Mindset Activities That Help Kids Become Confident & Self-Reliant https://www.kongacademy.org/16-growth-mindset-activities-that-help-kids-become-confident-self-reliant/ Tue, 26 Nov 2024 18:19:28 +0000 https://www.kongacademy.org/?p=3155 Help your kids develop a growth mindset, and they'll see challenges as opportunities, and bounce back from failure. Here are 16 growth mindset activities.

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growth mindset

As a parent, you want your child to grow into a confident, resilient individual who approaches life’s challenges with enthusiasm and determination. The key to fostering these qualities lies in nurturing a growth mindset. This approach encourages kids to embrace challenges, learn from setbacks, and view effort as a path to mastery. By incorporating growth mindset activities into your child’s daily life, you can help them develop the tools they need to thrive.

In this guide, you’ll learn what a growth mindset is, why it matters, and how to support your child’s journey toward becoming more self-reliant. Whether you’re introducing them to new ideas or reinforcing the lessons they’re already learning, these strategies will equip you to nurture their confidence and independence. 

What Is a Growth Mindset & Why Does It Matter?

A growth mindset is the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through effort, perseverance, and learning. The term is coined by psychologist Carol Dweck who maintains that the abilities are not static and can be changed or adapted.

Why is this so important for kids? A growth mindset enables children to view challenges as opportunities to learn rather than obstacles. They are more likely to persist in the face of difficulty, bounce back from failure, and continuously improve. This perspective fosters resilience, creativity, and a love for learning—all essential traits for success in life.

When you teach your child to adopt a growth mindset, you’re equipping them with skills that go far beyond academics or extracurricular activities. You’re empowering them to embrace life’s ups and downs with confidence and self-reliance.

Why Failing & Growing From Mistakes Is Important

Failure is an inevitable part of life, but for many children, it can feel overwhelming. However, failure is also one of the greatest teachers. When kids understand that mistakes are stepping stones to success, they’re more likely to take risks, explore new ideas, and develop grit.

To help your child view failure as a learning opportunity:

  • Encourage reflection. After a setback, ask your child what they learned from the experience.
  • Avoid judgment. Reassure them that mistakes are normal and expected.
  • Celebrate effort. Emphasize the value of trying over succeeding.

When your child struggles with a math problem or loses a soccer game, use these moments to reframe failure as a chance to grow. Say things like, “It’s okay to make mistakes—that’s how you learn!” or “What can we try differently next time?” This helps shift their focus from the outcome to the process.

By encouraging your child to see the value in failure, you’re helping them build resilience and teaching them that their worth is not tied to perfection. Instead, it lies in their ability to grow, adapt, and persevere.

Mistakes also help children develop empathy and compassion. By learning to process their own failures, kids are better equipped to support others facing similar challenges. 

How Parents Unknowingly Hold Kids Back

As parents, it’s natural to want to protect your child from pain and disappointment. However, overly shielding them from challenges can unintentionally hinder their development. When kids don’t experience struggle, they miss out on the opportunity to build problem-solving skills and confidence in their abilities.

Some common ways parents may unknowingly hold their kids back include:

  • Praising only results, not effort. Focusing solely on outcomes like grades or wins may discourage kids from trying harder tasks.
  • Stepping in too quickly. Solving problems for your child instead of letting them figure it out prevents them from learning independence.
  • Avoiding discussions about failure. Skipping these conversations can reinforce the idea that failure is something to fear.
  • Over-scheduling activities. While extracurriculars are beneficial, too many structured activities can leave little room for self-directed problem-solving and creativity.
  • Over-rewarding success. Consistently offering rewards for achievements can shift a child’s focus from learning to external validation.

Consider balancing your involvement by stepping back and allowing your child to experiment, take risks, and solve problems on their own. This hands-off approach might feel counterintuitive, but it’s key to fostering independence.

Reframing Your Relationship With Failure & Winning

It’s not just kids who need to reframe how they view failure—parents play a big role too. The way you talk about setbacks and success sets the tone for how your child perceives them.

Here’s how to model a healthy relationship with failure:

  • Celebrate effort, not just outcomes. Praise your child for their hard work, creativity, and persistence, regardless of the result.
  • Share your own mistakes. Let your child know about times when you failed and what you learned from those experiences.
  • De-emphasize perfection. Reinforce the idea that nobody is perfect and that growth is a lifelong journey.

By normalizing failure and highlighting the lessons it brings, you create an environment where your child feels safe to take risks and embrace challenges.

One often-overlooked aspect of modeling growth mindset behaviors is teaching kids to handle success with humility. While it’s important to celebrate wins, placing too much emphasis on outcomes can create unnecessary pressure.

When your child wins, try to focus on the process that led to their success. Ask questions like:

  • “What did you learn from this experience?”
  • “What part of the process was the hardest, and how did you get through it?”

This approach helps kids recognize that effort and growth are more meaningful than the result. At the same time, they learn to appreciate the value of teamwork, perseverance, and continuous improvement.

Introducing Kids to Growth Mindset Activities

One of the best ways to instill a growth mindset is through hands-on activities that make learning fun and engaging. These growth mindset activities teach kids to tackle challenges, think critically, and approach problems with creativity and determination.

Before diving into specific activities, explain the concept of a growth mindset to your child in simple terms. Use phrases like:

  • “Your brain is like a muscle—the more you use it, the stronger it gets!”
  • “Mistakes are proof that you’re learning.”

With this foundation in place, your child will be ready to dive into growth mindset activities that reinforce these principles in a playful and meaningful way.

Introducing growth mindset activities into your child’s routine doesn’t require a complete overhaul of their schedule. Many simple, everyday interactions can reinforce these ideas:

  • Turn daily chores into opportunities for problem-solving. For example, ask your child how they might organize their toys more efficiently.
  • Use family game nights to model positive attitudes about losing. Highlight moments of strategic thinking or creativity, regardless of who wins.

When growth mindset lessons are woven into your family’s daily life, they become second nature to your child.

16 Growth Mindset Activities That Help Kids Grow Through Adversity

Here are some practical and engaging growth mindset activities you can introduce to your child:

  1. Set Learning Goals Together
    Help your child set specific, achievable goals, like reading a certain number of books or mastering a new skill. Break the goal into smaller steps to show progress and celebrate each milestone.
  2. The Power of Yet
    Teach your child to add “yet” to statements like “I can’t do this.” For example, “I can’t solve this puzzle… yet.” This simple shift encourages optimism and perseverance.
  3. Journaling About Challenges
    Encourage your child to write or draw about a challenge they faced and how they overcame it. Reflecting on their experiences helps them see how much they’ve grown.
  4. Growth Mindset Storytime
    Read books that emphasize perseverance and learning from mistakes, such as “The Most Magnificent Thing” by Ashley Spires or “Your Fantastic Elastic Brain” by JoAnn Deak.
  5. Puzzle Challenges
    Provide puzzles or brain teasers that are slightly above your child’s skill level. Remind them it’s okay to struggle and offer hints rather than solutions.
  6. Build Something Together
    Engage in a collaborative project like building a model or creating a craft. Talk about the process and how you solved problems along the way.
  7. Failure Bingo
    Create a bingo board with different challenges (e.g., “Try something new,” “Make a mistake and learn from it”). Celebrate completing the board.
  8. Practice Mindful Breathing
    Teach your child simple mindfulness techniques to manage frustration and stay calm during challenges.
  9. Role-Playing Resilience
    Act out scenarios where your child faces a setback, like losing a game. Discuss how they feel and brainstorm ways to move forward.
  10. Compliment Effort in Others
    Encourage your child to notice and praise hard work in their peers or siblings. This fosters empathy and reinforces the value of effort.
  11. “What Went Well” Reflections
    At the end of each day, have your child list three things that went well and why. This practice helps them focus on their strengths and recognize how their efforts contribute to positive outcomes.
  12. Growth Mindset Art Projects
    Provide art supplies and encourage your child to create something they’ve never tried before. Whether they’re painting, sculpting, or crafting, emphasize that the process is more important than the final product.
  13. Physical Challenges
    Introduce activities like climbing, yoga, or martial arts, which naturally incorporate trial and error. These activities help kids build both mental and physical resilience.
  14. Create a “Not Yet” Wall
    Dedicate a space where your child can post tasks or goals they’re working on. Label it “Things I Haven’t Mastered… Yet.” This visual reminder reinforces the idea that growth takes time.
  15. Gratitude Journals
    Encourage your child to write about things they’re grateful for, even on difficult days. This practice helps them reframe challenges and focus on positives.
  16. Collaborative Problem-Solving
    Work with your child to tackle a shared challenge, such as assembling a complex puzzle. Discuss the strategies you used and celebrate your teamwork.

By engaging in these growth mindset activities, you empower your child to see challenges as opportunities to grow stronger, both emotionally and mentally.

Helping your child adopt a growth mindset is one of the greatest gifts you can give them. Through encouraging their efforts, normalizing failure, and introducing engaging growth mindset activities, you’re empowering them to embrace challenges and grow into confident, self-reliant individuals.

Remember, every small step counts. With your guidance, your child will learn that mistakes are opportunities, persistence pays off, and growth is always possible.

If you’re in the Seattle metro and seeking either an after school program or summer camp for your child, please explore all of our options.

And of course, follow us on YouTube for brain break videos that get kids moving with subtle doses of social emotional learning built in.

Kong Academy Kids Club

Join Our Seattle Based Summer Camps​

GET Access to the ULTIMATE PLAY DATE PACKAGE (Value: $49) for FREE!

Coach Curt’s Top Gifts for Playtime Fun

7-Day Crystal Shard Adventure

Unleash your child’s potential with our 7-day crystal shard movement adventure!

Our Afterschool Programs

Curriculum that works

The post 16 Growth Mindset Activities That Help Kids Become Confident & Self-Reliant first appeared on Kong Academy | Empowering Kids Through Play.

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Fostering Generosity in Kids This Holiday Season https://www.kongacademy.org/fostering-generosity-in-kids-this-holiday-season/ Thu, 21 Nov 2024 12:03:04 +0000 https://www.kongacademy.org/?p=1855 Hey Seattle parents! With the holidays upon us, it's the perfect time to nurture the spirit of generosity in our children. Not only does this season offer countless opportunities to give, but it also allows us to teach valuable lessons in empathy and kindness. Let's dive into some practical ways to develop these essential traits in our kids.

The post Fostering Generosity in Kids This Holiday Season first appeared on Kong Academy | Empowering Kids Through Play.

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Hey Seattle parents! With the holidays upon us, it’s the perfect time to nurture the spirit of generosity in our children. Not only does this season offer countless opportunities to give, but it also allows us to teach valuable lessons in empathy and kindness. Let’s dive into some practical ways to develop these essential traits in our kids.

Children are keen observers.

One simple yet powerful way to teach generosity is by performing acts of kindness ourselves. For instance, next time you’re grocery shopping with your kids, let someone go ahead of you in line and explain why you did it. It’s a small gesture, but it shows your child the value of thinking about others’ needs.

Gifts That Give Back:

Select gifts that contribute to a good cause. Websites like UncommonGoods offer a variety of gifts that donate a portion of the proceeds to charities. Another great option is World Wildlife Fund’s symbolic adoption, where your purchase helps protect endangered species. These Gifts shift the focus on the getting to the giving, which can shift their perspective of the season.

Family Volunteer Opportunities:

Seattle is rich with volunteer opportunities during the holiday season. Consider joining a Thanksgiving meal event at Union Gospel Mission or help sort donations at Northwest Harvest’s food bank. These activities are perfect for teaching kids about giving back to their community.

Homemade Gifts and Cards:

Encourage your kids to make homemade gifts or cards. Simple ideas include baking cookies, creating photo albums, or making hand-painted ornaments. These gifts often hold more sentimental value than store-bought ones. For cards, try making handprint art or a collage of family photos, adding a personal touch to your holiday greetings.

Explaining Empathy:

Explaining empathy to a 6-year-old can be as simple as saying, “Empathy is understanding and caring about how others feel.” A great bedtime story that teaches empathy is “A Sick Day for Amos McGee” by Philip C. Stead, available here on Amazon.

Making Generosity a Tradition:

One way our family loves to give back to those who need it most in our city is by assembling care packages for the unhoused. Gather essentials like toiletries, socks, and non-perishable snacks from a dollar store, and pack them into paper bags. Keep these bags in your car, so whenever you and your kids see someone in need, you can offer them a care package.

Embracing the spirit of generosity this holiday season can make a world of difference in our kids’ lives. By engaging in these activities, we’re not just celebrating; we’re imparting valuable life lessons. So let’s make this holiday season in Seattle a time of giving, learning, and growing together.

Your Turn:

The holidays are the perfect time to teach generosity, and we’d love to help keep that spirit alive in your home. What’s one way you and your family give back this season? Reflecting on this can inspire meaningful conversations with your kids about kindness and gratitude.

Looking for more ways to channel that energy? Head over to our YouTube channel for brain break videos that get kids moving, thinking, and practicing teamwork—all with fun, engaging adventures. Whether it’s dodging lava or tackling movement puzzles, we’ve got activities to keep your kids entertained and active over the holiday break.

Let’s keep the spirit of generosity going and give our kids the tools to grow into compassionate, confident individuals!

Kong Academy Kids Club

Join Our Seattle Based Summer Camps​

GET Access to the ULTIMATE PLAY DATE PACKAGE (Value: $49) for FREE!

Coach Curt’s Top Gifts for Playtime Fun

7-Day Crystal Shard Adventure

Unleash your child’s potential with our 7-day crystal shard movement adventure!

Our Afterschool Programs

Curriculum that works

The post Fostering Generosity in Kids This Holiday Season first appeared on Kong Academy | Empowering Kids Through Play.

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Understanding The Pivotal Role Parents Play In Developing Gratitude For Kids  https://www.kongacademy.org/understanding-the-pivotal-role-parents-play-in-developing-gratitude-for-kids/ Thu, 14 Nov 2024 16:37:00 +0000 https://www.kongacademy.org/?p=3130 Parents can help to develop gratitude in kids, even starting at a young age. This will help them to become socially aware.

The post Understanding The Pivotal Role Parents Play In Developing Gratitude For Kids  first appeared on Kong Academy | Empowering Kids Through Play.

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gratitude

Parents of all persuasions share that they value gratitude in kids. Kids who say thank you, use their manners, are cognizant of other people and the kind things they do for them are skills many people see as “signs” that a kid is growing into a healthy adolescent and emerging adult.

Gratitude practices can start very young. Unlike other social skills, gratitude can be taught as soon as words are spoken and refined as kids get older and life gets more complex. At Kong Academy, we see gratitude as a foundational attribute in kids, our team and the communities our after school and summer camps are in. But perhaps not for the reason you may think.

Yes, it’s wonderful when kids use their manners. Kids with a “gratitude vocabulary” are socially aware of the people around them. The skill of “being aware of others” is a great starting place for learning many more sophisticated skills. And as kids learn via building blocks, a foundation of being aware of the people around them is invaluable.

It’s also a learned skill. That means kids learn it from the people around them.

PBS in their article on gratitude in kids reminds us that gratitude is modeled. “Children imitate adult behavior. In your daily interactions, model saying “thank you” to store clerks, teachers, librarians and family members. Encourage your child to follow suit.”

That means putting your kids in social environments where they see thankfulness in action will help them to practice the skill themselves.

All of that said, it’s important to remember that for most of us, gratitude takes time to learn. We may not feel it all the time and especially in moments when something feels unfair, unbalanced or unjust. There are two sides to creating a lifelong gratitude practice for your kids: modeling and practice.

Modeling Gratitude

This is as simple as it sounds. If you want your children to show gratitude for experiences, gifts, time or anything else that you value, it’s important for them to see it in action so they learn how it’s done.

Manners

Manners are a big deal that we don’t talk about as much today as we once did. Yet, the implicit understanding when someone uses their manners in the presence of others is that they respect the other person and wish them well. This can come in many forms:

  • Saying “bless you” or “gesundheit” (German for the word “health” and the traditional response when someone sneezes
  • Saying thank you when someone holds a door for you
  • Saying I’m sorry when you make a mistake
  • Saying forgive me when you have wronged someone
  • Saying please when you want something

Manners offer both modeling and practice so it is a two-fold opportunity to help kids develop a gratitude practice.

Notice and acknowledge

When your child shows gratitude for something, take time to both notice and acknowledge it. Kids respond to positive feedback and want this kind of attention from their parents, caregivers and teachers. It doesn’t have to be a long discussion, in fact spending too much time can have the opposite effect for kids who are shy.

You can simply say something like: “wow, how cool that you said that” or “hey I see that you’re working on that, nicely done.”

Praise that is direct and clear indicates to kids what is working and further flags that skill as something “well done.” That subtle encouragement gives your child space to sort out how they want to behave and contributes to helping them develop agency over themselves.

Observing others

Just as you see good behaviors in your own kids, you are often around others who show more of the same. Noticing extends to other people in your family or social circle. By sharing with your child when you mutually see someone practicing gratitude, it gives greater context to how that’s done.

What’s important is the mutual part. Kids learn better through observing than storytelling in this case. And, in the beginning gratitude may seem overly connected to manners, but gratitude goes much deeper than that. Observing others and how they practice gratitude helps kids learn a broader definition of gratitude that extends to the bigger scope of their lives.

Setting Realistic Expectations

As much as you may wish your child felt gratitude at the same depth and level that you do, this is pretty unrealistic for young kids as the skill of developing empathy for others expands as kid’s mature. Kids showing jealousy, resentment, or other emotions that are the opposite of gratitude are also part of the natural learning curve.

When your child has a moment of feeling ungrateful for something in their life, use that as an opportunity to explore what they are feeling. Your child may think something is “unfair” or feel jealous that someone around them got a gift, toy, food item or something else of value that they did not.

Instead of turning to criticism that your child isn’t “grateful for what they have” this is a moment where you can explore what’s underneath the emotion. Often, feeling left out, skipped over, ignored or treated unfairly is underneath their lack of gratitude and in some situations, is completely warranted.

Developing emotional IQ happens as kids learn the various dimensions of their feelings. That means, it’s important for their emotional awareness to not just notice the good, but to also look at the other feelings that come up.

No one wants their child to be grateful for the crumbs in life.

As you embrace a gratitude practice for your child, it’s important to explore the wisdom underneath the feelings. Sometimes, life is unfair and that stings. Sometimes, you’re skipped over or not picked for a team and that brings up sadness or anger.

And sometimes those things happen in an unjust way, meaning someone was shown favoritism or given something unfairly. When that happens, feeling grateful would not be the “best” response. Fairness, equity and justice are important concepts for kids to learn as well.

When you explore what’s underneath their feelings, you have other teaching moments that will help your child learn more advanced skills like acceptance, speaking up and advocating for themselves.

Gratitude is an abstract skill and takes time for kids to really embrace. Starting at a young age with a gratitude practice and tying it to some basic social skills like manners gives kids a launch pad to grow into more complex skills later in childhood.

At Kong Academy, gratitude in all of these forms is valued. As is learning conflict resolution and speaking up. We know that when kids practice these skills early on, when there are less repercussions and more time for learning, it’s easier to ingrain healthy habits that can last a lifetime.

If you’re in the Seattle metro and seeking either an after school program or summer camp for your child, please explore all of our options.

And of course, follow us on YouTube for brain break videos that get kids moving with subtle doses of social emotional learning built in.

Kong Academy Kids Club

Join Our Seattle Based Summer Camps​

GET Access to the ULTIMATE PLAY DATE PACKAGE (Value: $49) for FREE!

Coach Curt’s Top Gifts for Playtime Fun

7-Day Crystal Shard Adventure

Unleash your child’s potential with our 7-day crystal shard movement adventure!

Our Afterschool Programs

Curriculum that works

The post Understanding The Pivotal Role Parents Play In Developing Gratitude For Kids  first appeared on Kong Academy | Empowering Kids Through Play.

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