Lack of confidence and self-esteem are issues that can affect a child’s success.
The foundations need to be laid in early childhood because patterns established in childhood can last a lifetime. Self-esteem is important to children.
Children who have confidence and self-esteem develop into happy, productive people. It is the parent’s role to let their child know that they are loved and valued.
So building their confidence and self-esteem will allow the child to deal with difficult situations that they will encounter during their lifetime.
As a result, confident children achieve more, and develop better relationships. Giving a child a positive sense of self-worth is the greatest gift you can give.
Developing self-esteem and confidence
We all want what is best for our children, so here are some practical tips that will help you encourage your child:
- Allow your child to make choices – this will empower them. For instance, just giving them a simple choice like would they like toast or cereal for breakfast. This will prepare the child to make more difficult choices as they grow older.
- Assign some age appropriate household chores whether it is folding the laundry or setting the table for a meal. This will allow the child to build a sense of responsibility which will increase their feelings of competency and make them feel appreciated by the family. Children NEED self-esteem.
- Don’t compare the child to other children whether they are friends or siblings. Instead treat each child as an individual and spend some quality time with them at least once a week, whether it’s a bike ride or a trip out for lunch. It’s a great opportunity to build self-esteem and confidence, and create a stronger bond with your child.
- Don’t feel you have to rush in to help if you sense your child is failing or not doing well on a specific task. Take a step back – your child needs to take risks and solve problems themselves which will help them to become competent and not dependent on other people.
- Encourage your child to take up new hobbies and interests, so that those new skills it will give them a sense of accomplishment that will boost their self-esteem and confidence.
- Don’t gush or offer insincere praise – your child will detect insincere or baseless compliments. It’s a thin line between praising and overpraising, but complements every now and then are important for developing self-esteem.
- Be careful not to criticise too harshly, because harsh words like “You’re so lazy” are harmful rather than motivating. If a child hears negative messages about themselves it harms their self-esteem.
Be a good role model to your child
You need to use your influence in the correct manner in the early stages of development. By doing that, they will grow into responsible, competent and confident adults.
If you feel that your child is suffering from a lack of confidence and self-esteem, call Clem Turner for more information. Our practice specialises in working with children.
Clem & Margaret Turner Therapy Practice
07958 689377 – 07960 788093
Retford, Nottinghamshire
