DEVELOPING SELF – ESTEEM IN CHILDREN : What Can Parent Do?

DEVELOPING SELF –ESTEEM IN CHILDREN : What Can Parent Do?

Self – esteem is the judgement that a person makes about his or her own self – worth – what we feel and believe about selves. Children form self – esteem based on their perception of the responses they get, especially from those closest to them. Positive experiences and interactions in their early years help children to build positive beliefs about themselves and to find their place in the world.  

WHY IS SELF – ESTEEM IMPORTANT?

Self – esteem is one of the major factors in determining how children will respond to future successes and disappointments. The development of self – esteem is one of the most important tasks of childhood and its benefits can be felt all through adulthood.

INDICATORS OF SELF – ESTEEM

Shows respect for others and themselves.

A child (or adult) with low self – esteem is more likely to be unhappy, have doubts about themselves, lack of confidence to try new things, and to be socially withdrawn. On the other hand, a person with high self – esteem : 

·        Expects to succeed, eventually.

·        Is willing to try new things.

·        Shows respect for others and themselves.

·        Is able to effectively solve problems or conflicts.

·        Is socially competent. 

WHAT CAN PARENT DO?

Parents and care – givers play and important role in helping children develop self – esteem, for example : 

·        One of the most important things you can do as a parent is model good self – esteem for your children, and to show them you feel good about yourself. 

·        Take and interest in their activities. Show your children that you believe in them and let them know you are proud of their achievements.

·        Encourage opportunities and challenges for your children. When they make mistakes, be positive and let them know that we can learn through mistakes. 

·        Listen to their opinions and help them explore their own ideas. Let them know that they don’t have to have the same opinions as you. 

·        Try not to compare them with their siblings or friends in a negative way.

Don't confuse your 

feelings about your 

children with your 

feelings about their 

behaviour.

·        Don’t confuse your feelings about your children with your feelings about their behaviour – make it clear that you may be unhappy about their behaviour but that you love them. 
·        Encourage the development of independence so that your children can manage many things for themselves and is not unnecessarily reliant on others, for example in social situations. 

·        Don’t allow your children to put themselves down. Positive talk has a positive impact.

SOURCE : GOOGLE iMAGES , Nature and Health.