How to Boost a Child's Self-Confidence
Psychologists conducting research at the University of Sydney in Australia found that accuracy of performance on a battery of cognitive tests was a predictor of self-confidence. Classroom teachers know that the reverse is true as well. Students who are confident in their abilities are not easily discouraged. Fear of failure is a very real hindrance to success in academics and life.
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Instructions
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Call your child by his name. "Johnny, I need you" is better than "Come here, please." Using his name acknowledges his uniqueness and importance.
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Listen when your child talks. Maintain eye contact to demonstrate that you are paying attention. Repeat key concepts to show that you understand. Ask for clarification to elicit detail. Encouraging her to talk about her feelings helps her to develop verbal skills. Make sure she knows that she can tell you anything.
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Play with your child. Physical activities are healthy and games help children to develop spatial perception and hand-to-eye coordination. Added bonus: the endorphins released by physical exercise will make both of you happier.
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Read to your child. Reading comprehension underpins learning. Bedtime stories encourage love of language and establish a good habit for life. Include simple read-along books and, once she is familiar with the story, allow her to finish sentences.
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Assign age-appropriate chores. Let your 4-year-old help you sort the laundry into darks and lights. Time spent together sends a subtle message that work comes before play. Mastering simple skills produce "Yes, I can!" moments; he will attack subsequent tasks with a greater certainty that he will succeed.
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Encourage your child's natural interests. Get excited with her. If she is fascinated with insects, encourage her interest by helping her find books in the library about insects or websites that give details about a species that interests her.
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Demonstrate faith in your child's ability. A pat on the back from you is a reward that nothing can equal. Be generous with honest praise when he does well and always reassure him that you knew he could do it.
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Tips & Warnings
Smile often. Nonverbal communication carries more than 60 percent of the meaning of words. When children do their chores, always say "thank you."
