5 Faith-Based Ways to Teach Courage to Shy Kids
Let’s be real, not every kid is the “run up and grab the mic” type.
Some are naturally cautious, gentle, soft-spoken. And that’s not a flaw. In fact, it’s beautiful.
But as faith-filled moms, we also want our kids to grow up with courage, not the loud kind, but the deep, God-given kind that helps them face fears, try new things, and stand firm when it matters most.
And guess what?
You can teach them that — even if they’re the shyest one in the room.
This isn’t about pushing your child to “just be brave already.” It’s about helping them understand that courage is obedience to God, even when you’re scared.
And that kind of courage? It comes from the inside out.
Let’s break it down together.
1. Redefine Courage for Them (and You)
Most kids (and adults) think courage means being loud, outgoing, or fearless.
But biblical courage is different. It’s not about personality, it’s about trust. Trust in God’s presence, His strength, and His promises.
Joshua 1:9 says,
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
That verse wasn’t said to a superhero. It was said to a man who had big shoes to fill and likely felt scared. God didn’t say “Be bold because you’re tough.” He said, “Be courageous because I am with you.”
Try this: When your child is facing something scary (a new class, speaking up, trying a new activity), remind them:
“Courage doesn’t mean you’re not scared. It means you do the right thing, with God by your side.”
2. Give Them “Courage Practice” Moments
You don’t have to wait for a big moment to teach courage. Look for tiny opportunities in everyday life:
• Asking a question at the store
• Trying a new food
• Saying hello to a neighbor
• Drawing a picture and showing it to someone
• Standing up for a sibling or friend
Each of these are little chances to say, “Hey, you showed courage today! That took heart!”
And remember, some kids need time. It’s okay to practice in safe spaces first, then celebrate the attempt, not just the outcome.
Real Talk: Courage doesn’t grow in one big leap. It grows in a hundred tiny, faithful steps.
3. Share Stories of Courage in Scripture (That Aren’t Just About Giants)
Yes, David and Goliath is a great story, but let’s not forget about:
• Esther – Courage to speak up for others
• Moses – Courage to lead despite his fear of public speaking
• Timothy – Young and timid, yet called to lead the church
Reading these stories with your kids (especially using age-appropriate Bibles or devotionals) shows them that courage looks different in every person, and God still uses them.
If you’re looking for a way to start, I created a Courage Activity Pack designed for ages 4–6 that gently introduces these ideas with faith-based activities, simple stories, and fun prompts that even shy kids love.
Grab the Courage Activity Pack here.
4. Speak Life and Identity Over Them
Sometimes our kids don’t believe they’re brave because we forget to say it. Your words shape their thoughts.
Speak like this:
• “I saw you try something new today. That’s courage.”
• “You were scared, but you did it anyway. God is proud of you.”
• “You are strong and brave — because God made you that way.”
This builds their identity in Christ, not just in how they act. And that’s the kind of identity that sticks, even when their voice is small.
5. Pray Together for Courage
Let them hear you pray specifically for their courage. Show them that going to God is the first step when we feel nervous or small.
Simple kid prayer:
“God, I feel scared. But I know You are with me. Help me be brave today. Amen.”
Faith isn’t a formula, it’s a relationship. And courage grows when kids learn to lean on God, not just on their own strength.
