How to Build Self Esteem in Preteen Girls

The preteen years are especially tough on girls. As their minds and bodies begin to experience the changes associated with puberty, they have conflicting feelings and thoughts. Parents may have to deal with their daughter's crying spells, sullen attitudes and mouthy behavior. To ease the transition from preteen to young woman, it is important to work on building a girl’s self esteem during these stormy preteen years.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Remember what it feels like to be that age and try to understand her feelings. Every experience is amplified for a preteen girl. Even the smallest thing can make her feel upset.
2. Present yourself as a role model. Preteen girls need positive female role models that can show them how to become a woman.
3. Help them deal with friend problems. A girl’s friends are very important to her during the preteen years and a small disagreement may seem like the end of the world to her. Be supportive and give her advice on how to work it out.
4. Expect her to contribute to family life. Chores can give her a sense of accomplishment and make her feel as if she is making a positive contribution to the family. The tasks that you assign can be chores typically reserved for boys, including cutting the grass or painting a fence.
5. Praise your preteen for her accomplishments. Let her know how proud you are and teach her how to accept compliments graciously.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid criticizing your preteen girl. Being overly critical will make her feel like something is wrong with her. Avoid making petty comments and gossiping in her presence.
• Don’t always rescue her from difficult situations. Let her figure out some things on her own.