By Dr. Mark Perloe & Justine Perloe, Co-authors of Milo’s Superpower
Every child has something extraordinary within them—a spark of individuality that, when nurtured, becomes their true superpower. These strengths may not always look like traditional achievements, but they are the qualities that shape a child’s character, fuel their confidence, and guide them through life’s challenges.
As parents, grandparents, and educators, our greatest gift is to help children recognize and embrace these unique qualities. In doing so, we empower them to see themselves not as someone who must “fit in,” but as someone who shines because of who they are. This message lies at the heart of our book, Milo’s Superpower, and it’s a lesson every child deserves to learn.
Why Recognizing Strengths Matters
Children today grow up in a world of constant comparison—whether through school, sports, or social media. They are often pressured to measure their worth against grades, trophies, or popularity. But true growth happens when children learn to value themselves not for how they compare to others, but for the qualities that make them unique.
When a child recognizes their strengths, they develop:
- Confidence and self-worth – Believing “I am enough just as I am.”
- Resilience – The ability to navigate setbacks without losing faith in themselves.
- Empathy – Respecting others’ differences while appreciating their own.
Encouraging children to identify their personal “superpowers” sets the foundation for a lifetime of self-belief and courage.
How Adults Can Help Kids Discover Their Superpowers
Recognizing a child’s superpower doesn’t require grand gestures. It begins with simple acts of awareness and encouragement.
- Observe and reflect. Pay attention to what excites, energizes, and motivates your child. Do they light up when drawing? Do they show kindness to others without being asked? These patterns often reveal their innate strengths.
- Ask open-ended questions. Invite children to reflect on their own qualities: “What makes you feel proud?” “What do you love doing most?” “When do you feel happiest?”
- Celebrate small wins. Point out moments when their natural strengths shine: “I love how you kept trying even when it was hard” or “Your creativity really brought that story to life.”
Through reflection and positive reinforcement, children begin to see qualities within themselves that they might otherwise overlook.
Turning Qualities Into Superpowers
Sometimes, what seems like a challenge is really a hidden strength. A child labeled “stubborn” may actually be showing persistence. A “shy” child may be a deep thinker or a great listener. By reframing these qualities, we can help children see the powerful potential within traits that are often misunderstood.
For example:
- A child’s curiosity becomes their superpower of discovery.
- A child’s sensitivity becomes their superpower of empathy.
- A child’s boundless energy becomes their superpower of enthusiasm.
When children understand that their personality traits are not flaws but strengths, they begin to wear them proudly.
Practical Activities to Nurture Superpowers
Here are a few simple, meaningful ways families and teachers can help children recognize and celebrate their unique strengths:
- Superpower Journals – Encourage children to write or draw their strengths and moments when they felt proud. Over time, this becomes a record of their growth.
- The Superpower Circle – Gather as a family and take turns sharing one strength you see in each person. Children beam when they hear their qualities reflected back by loved ones.
- Link Hobbies to Strengths – Help children see how their passions—art, music, sports, reading—are not just activities, but reflections of enduring talents and values.
- Acts of Kindness Challenges – Show children how their strengths can impact others. For example, a creative child might make cards for a neighbor, or a thoughtful child might read to a younger sibling.
These activities demonstrate how strengths can be used for good in the wider world.
The Role of Grandparents and Mentors
Children thrive when multiple voices affirm their worth. Parents provide day-to-day guidance, but grandparents and mentors add another layer of validation. Sharing stories about your own childhood—how you discovered your talents, how you overcame doubts—helps children see that growth and self-discovery are lifelong processes.
Grandparents, in particular, have a unique gift: the time and wisdom to notice strengths parents may overlook in the busyness of daily life. Their encouragement can leave a lasting imprint on a child’s identity.
Embracing the True Definition of Superpower
In today’s world, “superpower” often makes us think of capes and comic-book heroes. But a child’s real superpower is not about doing the impossible—it’s about being unapologetically themselves. It’s about kindness, persistence, imagination, or courage.
When we empower children to see their uniqueness as strength, we give them the tools to navigate challenges, form healthy relationships, and contribute positively to the world.
As adults, our role is simple yet profound: to notice, nurture, and name the qualities that make each child extraordinary. With that encouragement, every child can discover that they already have what they need inside them—their very own superpower.
About the Authors
Dr. Mark Perloe is a retired physician and grandparent based in Sherman Oaks; CA. Justine Perloe is a teacher based in Connecticut. Together, they co-authored Milo’s Superpower, an inspiring children’s book that encourages kids to embrace their individuality and recognize the superpowers within.
Thank you,
Glenda, Charlie and David Cates
