Self-Esteem

Children develop self-esteem by learning to deal with everyday situations. As children overcome obstacles and make accomplishments, they begin to feel worthwhile and their self-esteem increases. Children with high self-esteem are more likely to do well in school and less likely to submit to peer pressure. To help children develop a positive self-esteem, parents should communicate effectively, emphasize a positive approach to life, and build on family activities.

COMMUNICATE EFFECTIVELY

Listen to your children. Children should realize that their thoughts and feelings are important to you.

Express your values and the reasons you believe as you do.

Use constructive criticism. Learn to punish the behavior, not the child.

Show and tell your children that you love them.

Spend time with your children. Get to know their friends, activities, and likes and dislikes.

EMPHASIZE A POSITIVE APPROACH

Set an example and be confident in your own abilities.

Offer praise for accomplishments and encouragement for effort.

Help children develop a feeling of responsibility by giving them tasks they can complete.

Help children set realistic goals.

Allow children to develop their own interests by exposing them to a variety of activities.

Teach children that it is OK to make mistakes.

BUILD ON FAMILY ACTIVITIES

Work together as a family to reach goals. Help each other on both individual and group goals.

Share family discussion times. Encourage each family member to say something positive about every other family member.

Practice catching someone in the act of doing some thing good.

"/ came, / saw, / conquered. " Julius Caesar