Tonight with your 5 to 8 year old
The prompt
“What's something you couldn't do last year that you can do now?”
What to listen for
A quick, proud answer shows they're noticing their own growth, which builds real confidence. Ask how it felt the first time they realized they could do it.
If they struggle to think of anything, remind them of something specific you've noticed them improve at, sometimes growth is invisible until someone else points it out.
A humble 'I'm still not that good at it' answer is a great chance to remind them that noticing progress matters more than being perfect.
What this tells you
This tells you how aware they are of their own growth, and whether they need more reminders from you that they're capable.