Back to school: Self-esteem

As parents, we positively influence our children’s self-esteem by giving the children autonomy from a very early age on.

 

We can praise them for their efforts in school, extra curricular activities, sports, music, art, etc. not for their performance, grades, winning, etc. The latter reduces self-esteem,  sets the child under massive performance pressure, as the child is only seen and appreciated for its performance not for oneself.

 

Warm and loving relationships are the foundation of children’s self-esteem because they make children feel valued and worthwhile. Relationships are built on plenty of responsive, caring interactions with your child. Family rituals are important too, because they build your family relationships and give your child a sense of belonging.

 

You can build a positive relationship with your child by:

• being in the moment with your child
• spending quality time with your child
• creating a caring environment of trust and respect.

 

A self-esteem booster list:

• Help kids find their passion
• Praise perseverance
• Foster autonomy
• Treat your child with respect
• Avoid being critical
• Encourage communication
• Find and focus on their strength
• Involve your children in household tasks
• Set goals
• Focus on your child
• Be a role model
• Deal with mistakes constructively
• Encourage healthy friendships
• Encourage independence
• Give your child balanced feedback
• Independent activity
• Model confidence yourself
• Offer unconditional love

 

References

https://raisingchildren.net.au/toddlers/behaviour/understanding-behaviour/about-self-esteem