Building Self Esteem In Children

“I CAN is 100 times more important than IQ”.

 

One of the most important things by which you can help your child grow into a better person is by instilling in him/her a strong sense of self-esteem. Children are the continuation of their parents and they learn the most important qualities from their parents only. A child is not only a reflection of a parent in appearance, but in most cases; he/she is also his/her parents’ emulation in other aspects of life. The most important and primary influences on children are derived from their parents. Growing up feeling valuable and self-esteemed is important for their better overall development. Building self-esteem in your child will help him/her have an easier time in life. Self-respect is of utmost importance and is a major key to success and happiness for a child. Read on to know some tips that will help you in building self-esteem in your children.

 

 

Remember that your child is unique and comparing him/her with others will only lead to self-pity. Most of the times, we can find parents saying, “Learn from Tim” or “We are not as lucky as John’s parents” etc. Avoid comparing your child with anyone, especially your other children. Rather, recognize your child’s unique abilities and latent talents and work towards nurturing them.

 

You need to use the language of self-esteem not only for your child, but for yourself as well. Self-talk is important. Teach your children the importance of positive self-talk. Read stories to them about people who won the world just they believed in themselves. Help them develop a positive environment around themselves. Never, in any case, label your child in a broad division of good and bad. This will not only help them grow better, but will also help you concentrate on their skills and abilities.

 

Some parents don’t praise their children at all, while other parents end up indulging in over-praise. You need to maintain the perfect balance. If your child does something good, praise him/her. If he/she fails to do something after trying, appreciate his/her effort. Never ever ridicule your kids and avoid backhanded praise. You can criticize them when they do something wrong, however the criticism should be positive.

 

Set a limit for your children, wherever you feel the need to guide them properly, and teach them assertively. It is important for them to feel loved and cared for; however it shouldn’t lead to spoiling. An undisciplined child will find negativity and disapproval in every corner of his/her life. In order to protect him/her both emotionally and physically, you need to raise him/her with discipline.

 

Letting you children take decisions doesn’t mean that you give them the power to run your house. However, a little liberty in selecting and choosing their own stuff will make them self-decisive; in turn helping them grow in a better way. Allow them to try something new and act on their judgment, at times.

 

It can be difficult and crushing for any child to face defeat, especially for the first time. If your children have failed to meet your expectations, don’t make any sweeping criticism. Rather, be there for them and let them know that you love them for what they are and not what you want them to be. Articulate some encouraging remarks and support them in their trying time. Don’t try to fix the glitch, but be with them and listen to their problems without being judgmental.