We all want our kids to be happy and balanced. Self esteem is a set of beliefs we have of ourselves. We can shape our kids self esteem by following some of these simple tips...
10 ways to build self esteem in children
Do you ever worry your child is lacking confidence or self esteem? Sometimes children are naturally shy but there are some simple things you can do to boost their self esteem and make them feel happy and confident. Here we have 10 tips to help get you started.
Self esteem tip No.1: Praise & encouragement
Praise and encouragement goes a long way with kids, always remember to say 'well done' and use lots of positive language. What you say really counts so reward effort as well as achievement with your kids.
goodtoknow tip: Why not leave a little note in their lunchbox or on the table at home if you're not going to be in after school.
Self esteem tip No.2: Unconditional love
If your child is prone to saying things like, 'I'm not very good at football' you need to help by using language they understand. Try balancing their negative comment by saying 'You need more practice at football, but you're a fantastic swimmer.' Always use positive language as this will make them feel loved and boost their confidence.
Self esteem tip No.3: Listen
'Reflective listening' is listening carefully and repeating what you have heard and giving positive prompts back to your child. This way, they know you're listening and that you have a genuine interest and understanding of what they're saying.
Self esteem tip No.4: Quality time
Spending quality time with your child will help your child feel close to you. A bond will make them more likely to confide in you if they're worried about something too. If you have more than one child, set aside time with each of them. Make them feel special by planning an activity where it is just the two of you.
Self esteem tip No. 5: Role model
Being a positive role model can really help boost confidence in your child. A cheery, positive parent is likely to create a positive and happy atmosphere around house.
Self esteem tip No.6: Take an interest
Respect your child's interests, even if they seem boring to you! Always ask them about their day, how things are going at school and get to know their friends.
Self esteem tip No.7: Mark occasions
Make a big deal of special occasions, make them feel special and loved. Birthdays have a lasting impact on your child's memory and feeling loved and special for a day can really boost confidence. Also treat them to cards if they do well in exams, it's a great motivator.
Self esteem tip No.8: Nurture strengths
Encourage hobbies and encourage things they're good at. If you're child excels in a sport or really enjoys a hobby, then support them and encourage them to do activities outside of school. Take them to classes they really enjoy, and if they perform in a show or sporting event make sure you attend and show your support
Self esteem tip No.9: Responsibilites
Giving the kids jobs around the house will help with their problem solving skills, it also gives them a sense on achievement when they complete them. Try a star chart on the wall for good behaviour, encourage independence and reward effort not just completion of tasks.
goodtoknow tip: Chores need to be age appropriate, you don't want your child struggling to do something as it might have the opposite effect and make them feel useless
Self esteem tip No.10: Choices
Letting your child make choices for themselves helps them feel empowered and helps boost confidence. Even small decisions like what they want for breakfast. Allowing children to voice their opinions and feel like they are being heard is also a great self esteem booster.
Where to next?
- Fun things to keep the kids entertained
