5 Ways to Build Your Child’s Self-esteem

If your child has low self-esteem, it will affect their quality of life and ability to make good choices in their lives. As a parent, one of the greatest things you can do for your child is to give them a strong sense of self and confidence in who they are. Here are 5 ways that you can help your child to develop great self-esteem.

1)   Encourage them to do things themselves. Even though it may be quicker or easier just to do everything for your child, letting your child tie their own laces or put their own coat on helps them develop their skill-set and makes them better prepared for all the bigger challenges that life will present to them.

2)   Let them see your mistakes… By showing your kid that you are not perfect, they realize that everyone makes mistakes and that it is human to do so.

3)   … Be careful how you react to theirs. Showing disappointment or anger when your child does something wrong could negatively impact their self-esteem. Let them know that it is okay to make mistakes, and that they give us opportunities to learn and grow.

4)   Give your child choices. When you let your child in on the decision making process, they feel empowered and feel as though their input matters. Whether your child helps with meal planning or choosing a family activity one night a week, it will boost their confidence and prepare them for making decisions later in life.

5)   Never compare your kids. When you say that one is better behaved/ better at sports/ more of an artist than the other or whatever, it can be really hurtful. Be sure to appreciate each child as an individual, not as a mirror of their sibling.

This post is a repeat, but look forward to more original content to come in the future.