UAE Parents Rank Confidence as Top Priority for Children, Survey Shows
Building confidence in children is the top priority for parents across the United Arab Emirates, according to a recent survey of two thousand families conducted by Warrior Academy. The study shows that 61 per cent of respondents want their children to grow more self-assured, while overcoming fear and hesitation and developing self‑discipline are important for 36 per cent. Concentration and focus matter to 28 per cent, and 22 per cent cite bullying as their greatest worry, hoping their children will be better able to stand up for themselves.
Survey highlights parents’ priorities
The research, which polled 2,000 parents, found that confidence ranks ahead of self‑discipline and concentration as the key attribute families wish to nurture. Over a third of participants emphasised the need to help children move past fear and hesitation, while just over a quarter highlighted the value of strong focus. Nearly one in five parents pointed to bullying as the main concern, saying they want their offspring equipped to stand up for themselves.
Expert insight on child development
Sebastian Bates, founder of Warrior Academy, noted that the school half‑term break offers a chance for parents to review their children’s emotional and social progress. He said, “The first term is often the most challenging of the year. Children are coming back after a long summer break, moving into new classes, and some are starting at new schools, settling in and making new friends all over again. Now they’re into the flow of the school year, half term is a chance to have a breather, relax, check in with them and get ready for the term ahead.” He added that confidence, conduct and concentration are essential qualities that foster resilience and leadership. Bates also remarked, “It’s also a good time to focus on the character traits that will carry them through the rest of the year. At Warrior Academy we build everything around the three c’s: confidence, conduct and concentration. Together they develop resilience and leadership, and like any skill, they grow stronger with practice.”
New centre opens in Dubai
Bates, a former international professional fighter and author of The Warrior Method, explained that his own experience of childhood bullying motivated him to help youngsters become more confident. He said, “I was bullied as a child, and I know a confident child is far better equipped to stand up for themselves and for others. We want to give parents practical tools they can use straight away, from healthier screen habits to helping a child recover if they have a tougher day at school.” The findings coincide with the official opening of Warrior Academy’s Jumeirah Islands centre in Dubai, which began operating in April. Bates explained that classes are limited to nine to twelve students to ensure individual attention, and the academy provides martial arts training for children aged two to seventeen, focusing on confidence, discipline, leadership and resilience.
