Helping Your Child Build Resourcefulness This Summer

Middle schoolers collaborating on a hands-on project—building resourcefulness through curiosity, teamwork, and problem-solving. (Photo by Vanessa Loring)

Many parents worry that their child leans too heavily on others, gives up too quickly, or doesn’t know how to tackle challenges independently. In fact, a neuropsychologist recently reached out to ask how to help a parent whose daughter struggles with resourcefulness—a concern that came up during a feedback meeting. It’s a common and valid worry, especially as summer approaches and the structured support of school fades away. But here’s the good news: resourcefulness is a skill, not just a personality trait—and summer is the perfect time to help your child start building it. Whether your child is in elementary school or headed to college, there are meaningful, age-appropriate ways to grow this skill in fun, everyday moments.

Here are practical ways parents can help their children—from elementary school to high school—grow into more independent, capable problem-solvers this summer.

🌱 For Elementary-Aged Children

An elementary-aged child explores nature through a hands-on art activity—building curiosity, independence, and creative problem-solving. (Photo by Mikhail Nilov )

1. Let Them "Figure It Out" (With Support)

   When your child asks a question, resist the urge to answer right away. Try responding with, "What do you think we should do?" or "Where could we find the answer?" This builds their problem-solving muscle.

   
   

2. Mini Challenges at Home

   Create small, low-stakes challenges like “design a snack using only what’s in the fridge” or “build a blanket fort using furniture from one room.” These activities foster creativity and persistence.

   
   

3. Use Picture Schedules

   Involve them in building daily schedules using pictures or simple words. This teaches planning and helps them take ownership of their routines.

🌿 For Middle Schoolers

A student independently creates a presentation—building digital skills, responsibility, and the confidence to share his own ideas.

1. Summertime Projects

   Encourage them to take on a self-directed project—organizing a yard sale, building something from scratch, or planning a family outing. Make it their job to research, plan, and follow through.

   
   

2. Teach "Ask 3 Before Me"

   To promote independence, have your child ask three sources (books, internet, friends, or even trial-and-error) before coming to you for help. This reduces reliance and builds resourcefulness.

   
   

3. Introduce Problem Logs

   Have your middle schooler keep a journal of challenges they face and the steps they took to solve them. This helps them reflect and refine their thinking.

🌳 For High School Students

A high school student navigates unfamiliar territory—building independence, decision-making, and the confidence to problem-solve without always having the answers. (Photo by Danik Prihodko)

1. Real-World Responsibilities

   Give teens real responsibilities: managing part of the family budget, planning meals for the week, or organizing transportation for their summer job. Encourage them to make decisions—and learn from missteps.

   
   

2. Practice Self-Advocacy

   Have them make their own appointments, email teachers about summer assignments, or reach out to coaches. These tasks help them learn to advocate for themselves, a key skill for college and life.

   
   

3. Problem-Based Discussions

   Instead of giving advice, have conversations that help teens think through options and consequences. Try: "What do you see as your best next step?" or "What’s another way you could approach that?"

Why Resourcefulness Matters

Children who are resourceful are more confident, adaptable, and resilient. They are better equipped to face academic pressures, social conflicts, and the everyday curveballs life throws their way. But resourcefulness doesn’t always come naturally—and that’s where guidance can make all the difference.

💡 Want Help Building These Skills?

At Enhancing Your Strengths, our Executive Function Coaches work one-on-one with students to build critical life skills—including resourcefulness, planning, time management, and problem-solving. Whether your child is heading into 4th grade or preparing for college, we tailor our coaching to meet their needs and support their growth.

Contact us today for a complimentary consultation and learn how we can support your child’s success this summer and beyond:🌐 www.EnhancingYourStrengths.com

Empower your child to take ownership of their growth this summer—because resourceful kids become capable adults.