Social confidence in middle childhood doesn’t move in a straight line. Kids grow through trying, misreading a moment, recovering, and trying again. Some days they feel brave and open. Other days they pull back or second-guess themselves. That back-and-forth is not a problem to solve. It’s how growth happens. What matters most isn’t pushing confidence or pointing out what they should do differently. It’s offering steady connection, noticing effort, and staying regulated when things feel awkward or uncertain. Confidence builds when kids feel safe enough to keep showing up as themselves. Comment BOOK to learn how to support your 12 year old through this stage of development.