Creating Courage in the Classroom
- Young CEO Squad Editor
- Jul 28
- 4 min read
Updated: Aug 28
If we want our students to grow into leaders, innovators, and resilient problem-solvers, courage can’t be optional. It has to be part of the classroom culture.
Courage in the Classroom: A Key to Success
Courage in the classroom isn’t about being loud or fearless—it’s about teaching students to speak up when it counts, take healthy risks, and stay true to themselves, even when it’s hard.
As educators, we have a unique opportunity to make courage a daily practice, not just a character trait. When we do, we plant the seeds of entrepreneurial thinking—confidence, creativity, resilience, and action.
Here’s how to create a learning environment where courage is modeled, expected, and celebrated.
Download the printable file:
1. Model It Out Loud
Students watch what we do more than what we say. That’s why classroom courage starts with the teacher.
Let them hear you say:
“I’m trying something new with today’s lesson—I’m not sure how it will go.”
“I made a mistake yesterday, and here’s what I learned.”
Modeling vulnerability shows students that taking risks is part of growth—and that perfection isn’t the goal. Problem-solving, self-awareness, and trying again? That’s what real learning looks like.
2. Celebrate Brave Behavior—Not Just Right Answers
Classroom rewards often go to students who are quick, correct, or quiet. But real entrepreneurship often starts with a risk, not a right answer.
Shift the culture by praising courage:
“That was a bold idea—thanks for putting it out there.”
“I love that you spoke up even though you weren’t 100% sure.”
“It’s brave to share a new perspective. Thank you.”
By recognizing effort, resilience, and creativity, we encourage a mindset that values progress over perfection—just like entrepreneurs do.
3. Create Psychological Safety for Risk-Taking
No one builds a business—or a bold idea—in a space that feels unsafe. The same is true for students.
Set classroom norms that make it clear:
✔️ No mocking or put-downs
✔️ Every voice matters
✔️ Mistakes are part of the process
Entrepreneurship is full of trial and error. If students feel safe to fail, they’ll be more willing to try. And trying is where the magic happens.
4. Build Real Dialogue Skills
If we want students to stand up for what they believe in, they need the language and tools to do it respectfully.
Teach them how to:
Disagree with ideas, not people
Ask questions to understand, not to “win”
Navigate tough conversations with empathy and clarity
These aren’t just classroom skills—they’re entrepreneurial leadership skills that carry into every area of life.
5. Give Students Opportunities to Practice Courage
Courage is a muscle. The more students use it, the stronger it gets.
Design projects and classroom activities where students:
Present their ideas publicly
Take on leadership roles
Solve real problems with real stakes
Create something and share it with others
Entrepreneurship education naturally creates these moments. Whether it’s pitching a business idea, selling a product, or presenting a group project, these experiences build confidence, initiative, and adaptability.
6. Protect the Brave: How to Deter Trolls and Disruptors
Courage can’t thrive where cruelty is tolerated. Educators must protect the learning environment so risk-taking doesn’t feel dangerous.
Here’s how:
✔️ Set community norms together—and revisit them regularly
✔️ Praise courage publicly, address cruelty privately
✔️ Use redirection and reflection—not just consequences
✔️ Empower students to lead culture-building roles in the classroom
✔️ Build belonging and representation into your lessons
Sometimes disruptive behavior comes from students who feel unseen. When they feel connected and included, they’re more likely to lift others up instead of tearing them down.
7. The Ripple Effect of Courage
Courage is contagious. When we foster it in our classrooms, we create a ripple effect. Students who feel empowered to take risks inspire their peers to do the same. This creates a vibrant learning community where everyone thrives.
Encourage students to share their courageous moments. This could be through a class blog, a bulletin board, or even a simple sharing circle. When students see their peers being brave, it reinforces the idea that courage is valued and celebrated.
Final Thought: Build the Culture, Watch the Confidence Grow
At home, at school, and in our classrooms, we need to raise kids who can:
✔️ Think critically
✔️ Stand up with empathy
✔️ Stay grounded when things get hard
That doesn’t come from lectures. It comes from modeling, opportunity, and trust.
Courage is contagious. Let’s be the spark that ignites it.
Download the printable file:
About the Author
Suzanne Appel didn’t plan to build a company for kid entrepreneurs—until her own children inspired her.
After 25 years leading digital marketing for major brands, Suzanne found new purpose watching her kids turn ideas into mini businesses. Lemonade stands became trading and selling collectibles, and she realized something powerful: if we want kids ready for the future, we need to start teaching them how to create it.
In 2019, she launched Young CEO Squad, a hands-on entrepreneurship program for kids ages 7–12. Through business-in-a-box kits and school partnerships, Suzanne makes entrepreneurship fun, accessible, and real—giving kids the tools and confidence to launch their own ventures.
More than a product, it’s a mission: to reach ambitious kids in all communities, especially those with limited resources. Each kit sold helps fund workshops and, soon, scholarships for young entrepreneurs.
Suzanne lives in Southern California with her husband, two kids, and two scrappy dogs. Her goal? To raise a generation of confident, creative problem-solvers—one kid business at a time.
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