Ad | Having self-esteem is so important to everyone, but it is particularly important to children who are learning lots of new things and trying to work out who they are. A lack of self-esteem can really hinder this process and make it harder for them to put themselves out there when it comes to things like making friends or even putting their hands up in class.
The good news is that if your child has low self-esteem, there are lots of things that you can do to help them change that, as you will see below.
1. Offer Genuine Praise
You don’t have to treat them like they’ve just won ‘Britain’s Got Talent’ every time they tie their shoes. But a little “Well done, mate!” for their genuine efforts goes a long way. Remember, it’s not about the outcome but the effort.
2. Set Realistic Expectations
It’s tempting to want them to be the next Alan Turing or J.K. Rowling, but let’s keep it real. Set tasks that challenge them but are also achievable. You wouldn’t want to run a marathon without training, right?
3. Make Time for One-to-One
Set aside some quality time for each child individually. Whether it’s a cheeky Nando’s date or just a stroll around the block, make them feel like they’re the bee’s knees.
4. Encourage Independence
Let them have a bash at doing things on their own, whether it’s setting the table, making their bed, or fixing a sandwich. Even if the result is a jam-smeared countertop or a lumpy bed – it’s all a part of the learning!
5. Listen Actively
When they’re having a chinwag with you about their day, the latest school gossip, or their favourite superhero, listen like it’s a top podcast. Your attention tells them that their thoughts, and feelings matter.
6. Therapy: Not Just for Telly Dramas
If your kiddo is constantly feeling blue or not quite their usual chirpy self, it’s worth considering professional help from a great family therapist. Therapy isn’t just for telly dramas and can offer real tools and strategies to help kids understand and express their feelings. It’s a safe space for them to explore their own emotions.
7. Accept Them, Warts and All
Your child might not be the next Beckham or Adele, and that’s perfectly alright. Love them for who they are, quirks and all. If they love collecting pebbles or believe they can speak fluent ‘alien’, celebrate that uniqueness.
8. Teach Them Resilience
Life’s not always a bowl of cherries. Sometimes it throws you lemons. Show them it’s okay to fail, pick themselves up, make some metaphorical lemonade and have another go.
9. Encourage Hobbies
Be it ballet, stamp collecting, or a fascination with creepy crawlies, hobbies can be a fantastic way to boost self-confidence. They’ll learn new skills and make mates with similar interests.
10. Lead by Example
Kids are like sponges (minus the ability to effectively clean the kitchen). They’ll absorb your behaviours and attitudes. If they see you being kind to yourself, chances are, they’ll follow suit.
11. Open Conversations About Feelings
Encourage them to chat about their feelings, and not bottle it up. A problem shared is a problem halved, after all.
12. Encourage Friendships
Good mates can boost self-worth. Encourage playdates, sleepovers, and joining clubs. But also teach them that it’s the quality, not quantity, of friendships that truly matter.
Armed with these tips, you’re set to boost your kiddo’s self-esteem. Remember, building self-worth is a marathon, not a sprint. With patience, love, and perhaps a bit of British stubbornness, you’ll help them grow into confident, well-rounded adults.
