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National School Psychology Week, observed Nov. 3-7, highlights how families and educators can help children build confidence, explore their interests and navigate challenges. The 2025 theme, “Finding Your Path,” recognizes that every student’s academic, social and emotional development follows a different course.
School psychologists are an important part of that support system. Working with families, teachers and other school employees, they help students address anxiety, learning difficulties, peer relationships and a lack of motivation.
Their work can include assessments, counseling, behavioral interventions and practical strategies tailored to individual needs. They also help schools create inclusive environments that recognize the many ways children learn, grow and define success.
Families can reinforce that work at home by encouraging self-discovery, age-appropriate independence and resilience.
Start conversations about strengths
Parents can move beyond routine check-ins by asking open-ended questions: What excites you right now? What do you think you do well? When have you felt proud of your work? What did you learn when something did not go as planned?
These conversations can help children identify their interests and abilities. Families can also create a growing “strengths inventory” using a list, drawing or collection of accomplishments that children can revisit when they feel discouraged.
It is equally important to explain that success does not look the same for everyone. Children may thrive through creativity and imagination, structure and persistence, or another route that fits their needs.
Make room for exploration
Offering choices within safe boundaries helps children practice decision-making. A parent might ask whether a child would prefer to prepare for a presentation that evening or the following morning.
Children can also learn about themselves by trying an elective, sport or hobby. An interest does not need to last forever to be worthwhile; experimenting and deciding to move on can be part of finding the right fit.
As children master skills such as organizing a project or communicating with a teacher, parents can gradually step back. Remaining available while allowing children to try independently can strengthen autonomy and critical thinking.
Treat setbacks as part of growth
Anxiety, peer difficulties and disappointing grades can be framed as detours rather than dead ends. Instead of focusing only on what failed, families can ask what different strategy might work next.
Parents can also praise effort and persistence, not only final results. Recognizing the work behind an attempt may help children remain motivated when a task becomes difficult.
Adults reinforce this lesson through their own behavior. When children see parents manage problems, adjust plans and continue after setbacks, they gain a practical model of resilience.
Anyone experiencing a crisis or needing immediate help can call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Fairfax County Community Services Board Emergency and Crisis Services is available at 703-573-5679. For outpatient walk-in assessments, call ahead at 703-383-8500.
Children’s Regional Crisis Response can be reached at 571-364-7390. In an emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.