It is an undeniable fact that since children spend their formative years in their parents’ home, their character building takes place there. Jane Nelson, author of the Positive Discipline book series, explains that self-esteem develops in humans due to a feeling of belonging, understanding their capabilities, and realizing the worth of what they contribute to the house and to society. Though self-esteem development at home may seem rather daunting for most parents, it’s not that difficult a task.
Tell your children the truth about themselves
Children ought to be told that how amazing they are, regardless of their achievements. Children are a gift that should be treasured and loved. You should also make it a point to tell your children that they have the capability to achieve great things, and what individuals say about them doesn’t matter. You should also tell your children that the only one who can stop them, is they, themselves. Children also need to be enlightened on the fact that no one is perfect, and that self-esteem doesn’t steam from perfection, but believing in their own ability to achieve what they desire in life.
Don’t worry about your children’s mistakes
While encouraging your child to explore new things, mistakes, whether big or small, are bound to take place. These mistakes, however, will help in boosting your child’s self-esteem. It is important that you build up your child rather than repeatedly checking him, for making a mistake. Constructive correction will definitely help in building your child’s self-esteem.
Acknowledge your mistakes
Now here comes the rather tough part; admit it when you’re wrong. If you accept your own mistakes, and work around rectifying them, it would definitely have a positive impact on your child. This would make it much smoother for them to understand and correct their shortcomings.
Hear your child out
While the points stated above are important, following this one would not only strengthen the relationship with your child, but also take his/her self-esteem to another level. When your child decides to confide in you, it is vital that you listen carefully to every detail of what they might have to tell you. Even if you don’t comprehend exactly what he/she is saying, hearing a child out helps them understand that their thoughts and feelings are of worth. You can further increase your child’s self-esteem, by sharing your feelings with him/her.
Don’t praise your kids for no reason
Though praising your kids for their achievements is good for their self-esteem, while overdoing it will probably harm it. Jim Taylor, author of Your Kids Are Listening: Nine Messages They Need To Hear From You, explains that over-praising kids prevents them pushing themselves to achieve more. He also states that by telling children that they’re the smartest, the most talented, or the best, they would definitely be in for shocking truths, years down the line. Like everything, the right balance should be struck between praising and positive correction, as these factors play a vital role in boosting the self-esteem of kids at home.