10 ways to build Self-Esteem in your child
Updated: Aug 6, 2021
Your child's self-esteem is one of the most significant things to build. The way they grow up is entirely dependent on their sense of self-worth, and a childhood composed of low confidence can be detrimental for them. As a parent, your responsibility revolves around encouraging your child to grow up in the best manner possible, Which means helping them build their self-esteem through several ways, such as being a good role model and spend time with your child. In this article, I have listed down the ways you can build your child's self-esteem.
Parents need to fill a child's bucket of self-esteem so high that the rest of the world can't poke enough holes to drain it dry... Alvin Price
1. Show love to your child
When you love your child, and they feel secure in that love, they'll grow up with the confidence that they know what genuine support and care are. Children have secure self-esteem when they have the necessary love needed from their parents. Loving them means treating them with the purest of intentions and doing everything you can to support them.
2. Encourage a child to think calm when in trouble
In times of trouble, avoid reprimanding them right away but instead, let them calmly think on their own toes. You'll still be there to support them, but you shouldn't let your anger be the first emotion they get out of you. Your child needs to feel encouraged and guided in the right direction, even when they made a mistake.
3. Do not criticize
Many children grow up insecure and doubtful because their parents constantly criticize them for their flaws and imperfections. As a parent, you should encourage your child's best aspects if you want them to be secure in their self-worth and identity. This is frankly one of the most significant things you can do for them. Instead, focus on the positive side of your child's traits, as this is how they'll feel loved and cared for.
4. Do not compare your child with others
One of the factors that cause children to feel insecure is when you compare them to other children and when they start to feel inferior in your eyes. It doesn't matter if it's their sibling or friend - your child doesn't deserve to be compared to others as every child has a different set of abilities and skills.
5. Teach your child basic skills
Your job as a parent isn't just focused on caring for them but also on teaching them the necessary life skills. You need to teach your child basic skills such as self-defense, interacting with others, house chores, communication, kindness, patience, and time management. Teaching your child the right skills and values will encourage them confidence even at a young age.
6. Be the model example
As a parent, you're their primary role model in their lives and growing up, which is a very important factor. They'll likely mirror your values and behaviour, so if you want your child to grow up with secure self-esteem, you should practice what you preach. Be confident enough so that your kids will likely adopt this growing up.
7. Let your child make their own choice
No matter how much you want to control their decisions, so they make the right ones, you need to let them experience things independently. This is extremely difficult for a parent, but it's a necessary part of their growth and self-esteem.
8. Encourage your child to try new things
Help them try new skills and interests, whether it's taking different classes or being supportive when they find a new hobby. You need to appreciate them enough in trying new things to help build their self-esteem. The more skills and interests they learn, the more confident they'll be.
9. Praise your child but don't overdo
Praising your child when they do something good has a significant benefit in building their self-esteem. But use your words wisely, be sincere, and honest because some encouraging words don't always inspire kids with low self-esteem. Also, remember to use them occasionally; adequate parenting is all about balance and knowing when to praise your kids or reprimand them.
10. Avoid too much pressure on them
Pressure doesn't encourage your child to grow up confident and secure, but it actually does the opposite. Kids who experience too much pressure and are expected to perform well are more likely to develop a higher risk of mental illness, sleep deprivation, and it may affect their self-esteem. Pressuring them acts similar to controlling them wherein they'll feel the opposite of
being loved and supported.
I hope this article was able to shed insight on ways you can help build your child's self-esteem. Through these things mentioned above, you can be a caring parent and encourage your child to grow up in the healthiest manner possible.
