Seeking Anyone Who Has Had a Child That Gives up Easily, and They Fixed It.

I don't know, but you aren't alone. My 7yo is similar. Like most people, I've known some adults with the same problem so it's a big deal to me that he learns to work through his fears and to keep on going even when he's discouraged.

Which is easier said than done, I know. We have tried to keep the consistent message that when you commit to something you have to see it through, but I have also used rewards to get him to finish things (he wanted heelies for his birthday and I told him he had to finish ice skating lessons to get them.)

What I don't know how to do is to get him to feel more confident. Recently he was on a soccer team, his first time, and he was not one of the greatest players. He was OK, but he was also easily discouraged. So after the season we signed him up for a skills camp (probably should have done that first) with the idea that with proficiency will come confidence. I'm not sure if that was successful, though.

I'm also signing him up for martial arts starting in January. Many people have suggested it to me as a confidence and character-builder for boys.

You could be describing both of my younger brothers.... The one who is close to me in age was the worst, but my parents always gave in and let him have his way so they wouldn't "make him feel bad". He's an adult, and still has issues with following through on things that are difficult. My younger brother is elementary school. He has the same attitude, but giving up is simply not allowed anymore. He grumbles, gripes, and moans, but he is getting better about continuing to try. Joining the band and seeing everyone struggle has been a big confidence booster for him. He also does well when one of us gets involved with him (my dad playing ball with him, my husband helping him learn the instrument, I help with math, mom with reading). That has made a big difference.

Good luck - it is a frustrating thing, but you are right to be concerned. The best time to help him is now!

Patience, understanding, and practice where needed. My oldest is a perfectionist and we're constantly telling her that it doesn't have to be perfect. She just needs to give it her best effort. She is much better now and doesn't say she's quitting things.

My middle always wants to give up - especially with her homework - she struggles. We give her a break and lots of help.

I agree with the poster that said it can be a confidence problem. Maybe enrolling in a Karate class would help.

Yes, this is our 6 yr. old daughter. Unfortunately, we haven't "fixed" it, but I do as the one post states and don't allow her to quit. She will be lazy even with everyday activities like taking a bath, tying her shoes or zipping her coat. She has to at least try to do the things or I will take away stuffed animals (her prize possessions). She moans through it all, but at least she is now trying. I try to limit the amount of help I offer and hope to wean that as she does more.

I don't have any experience with this, but I think you need to make him follow through while offering lots of help and encouragement. You might need to spend extra time learning to play basketball or the moves for the show so that you can help him. Even if he doesn't perform well at the time, he will have learned that he can't just not do it, and maybe next time he will try a little harder. I think this is too important to let happen, as it will definitely affect him later on. I would also make sure, though, that he keep seeking out new things that he might like, because it could just be that he finds out that he's not really interested in these things, and just needs to find his niche.

I think one thing to do might also be to limit the number of activities that he participates in. My parents did this for us and I think it was a good thing. It means that you learn how to commit to something (like piano lessons or whatever) and actually see the benefits of doing so. This is in contrast to one of my good friends growing up whose mom let her try everything and then drop out as soon as she lost interest. So I would make sure he is not stretched too thin and actually has time to get good at the few things he is doing. This can be a real confidence builder.

I really liked Amanda's response because my little brother is the same way. My parents always "let him quit" when he wanted to and while he is getting better, he still wants to quit constantly. I would make him follow through on things- punishment if he doesn't, loss of privelages, etc. Also, trying to do things with him may make things more fun for him. Have you tried reverse psychology at all? Best of luck!