How To Raise Children With A Positive Self-esteem

Self-esteem is a concept that is getting more and more attention. While the term is sometimes treated as somewhat vague or ambiguous, it is actually one of the basic building blocks of a healthy and well-adjusted personality. That is why we have gathered some information on how to raise children with a positive self-esteem.

What is self-esteem?

Self-esteem affects the perceptions, thoughts, feelings and judgments we have about ourselves. It is what you think and feel about yourself and how happy you are with who you are.

One’s self – esteem is not something one is born with. Instead, it is a concept that develops throughout life and can be modified. Even if a child has low self-esteem, we as parents can help improve it.

Why is a positive self-esteem so important?

We often hear the expression “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” But for some reason and all too often we forget the last three words; we forget to love ourselves.

Children with positive self-esteem

Children with positive self-esteem feel valued, accepted and safe. They have the confidence they need to try new things and explore their surroundings.

This belief in their own abilities motivates them to do their best to meet each new task. It also helps them to be proud of what they can do.

Children with a positive self-esteem know how to tolerate frustration when things do not work out on the first try. They can adapt and try again. Instead of seeing their mistakes as failures, they accept them as part of the learning process. Therefore, they are less harsh on themselves.

This way of seeing life allows them to perform better, not only in school but also socially and within the family.

Children with low self-esteem

Children with low self-esteem lack self-confidence and feel insecure. They feel less worthy than others, doubt their own abilities and tend to focus on the negative.

They are often quick to give up or not even try to visit new places and try new activities, as they  have difficulty dealing with mistakes and failures. They can be very critical and have a hard time forgiving themselves.

As a result, they do not perform as well as they could in certain areas of their lives. In other words, fear prevents them from reaching their full potential.

How to have children with a positive self-esteem?

• Love your children unconditionally. Be loving and tell them you love them no matter what they do. When correcting them, you need to make sure that the problem is related to a specific behavior and not them personally.

• Give them your attention. Spend time with your children and look them in the eye when they talk to you. In this way, you show them that you are really listening and that they are really important to you.
• Offer options. When children are 2 years old, they can start making small decisions on their own. Giving them choices gives them the message that you trust their ability to make decisions.
• Establish clear and consistent boundaries. Knowing their limits helps them feel safe.
  
• Let your children make mistakes and strengthen their independence and autonomy. Encourage them to do their homework themselves and, if they make a mistake, do not be in a hurry to correct them. Let them instead discover their own mistakes and look for a better alternative.

• Avoid comparisons. Emphasize that we are all different and that we all have our own strengths and talents. Teach your children to admire and learn from others instead of envying them. Also help them to feel proud of their own virtues and strengths instead of comparing themselves to others.
• Develop their ability to adapt and be flexible. Teach them to face challenges in life. Remind them that what is important is not to do the right thing the first time, but instead to make an effort and dare to try.
• Accept their feelings and outbursts. Help your children identify and manage their emotions.
• Be a good role model as a person with positive self-esteem. Express how proud you are of their achievements and avoid commenting negatively on your children.
• Give them a positive environment to grow up in. Make it a habit to talk to your children every night about their day. Every morning, take the time to remind your children of their great potential.