How to Raise a Child's Self-Esteem

Self-esteem is a term used to reflect a person's overall evaluation of his or her own worth. As you might imagine, a child's self-esteem is very important and can play a critical role in his or her development into a young adult. Having high self-esteem will help a child academically and socially. A child with high self esteem will be proud of his or her accomplishments, assume responsibility and accountability, tolerate frustration well, and be confident enough to try new things. The following points may be helpful in strengthening and supporting a high level of self-esteem in your child.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. GIVE PRAISE. Be sure to give praise when your child deserves it. Always be enthusiastic in your approval. Get excited when your child accomplishes something from a lot of hard work. An unexpected reward is sometimes a good idea.

2. IMPORTANCE. A child needs to feel he or she is a part of something. They need to feel deeply connected to the important people in their lives: parents, siblings, friends, etc. Make your children aware that you want to hear what they have to say and that you want to understand that their ideas and thoughts are important to you. Be sure your child knows you love them no matter what and that he or she is a valuable and important part of your family.

3. ENCOURAGEMENT. Encourage your child to take reasonable risks. Help each child set and reach goals that are realistic for them so they will learn that success comes from their own efforts. Reward their efforts with encouraging support. Encourage your children not only for their successes, but also for their failures if they have worked hard.

4. RESPONSIBILITY. Children need to feel like they have some influence over their surroundings. In order to have such influence, children need to have the opportunity to make choices. They need to take responsibility and be accountable for their actions. Striving to accomplish a task and successfully completing that task will build confidence and high self-esteem. Be sure to allow your child an age-appropriate level of responsibility and be sure to praise them for the work they have done.

5. DISCUSSION. Show an interest in your child's tasks/problems by asking them questions. Focus on your child and speak directly to him or her. This will instill the idea that your child is worthy of your full attention. Fully listen to your child when he or she has something to say.