Build Self-Esteem in Children and Teens

Self-esteem is your opinion of yourself.  It begins with your self-concept or mental picture. There is a lot of truth in the phrase, we are what we think. Therefore, high self-esteem is a good opinion of yourself resulting from positive thoughts. Low self-esteem is a poor opinion of yourself resulting from negative thoughts. It all begins with how you see yourself and whether you like what you see.

Self-esteem is critical for attaining success. It is the cornerstone of positive choices, a healthy attitude towards life and the reaching of one’s potential. Patterns of self-esteem begin early in life as a child tries to master a new skill - crawling, standing, sitting and walking. Children, who are happy with their achievements, are applauded for their successes and feel loved, experience healthy self-esteem.

Help foster healthy self-esteem in children and teens by following these steps.

1.     Teach by example. Be positive about your own abilities and successes.  Avoid being harsh and critical about your personal limitations and failures.  

2.     Watch your words. Take time to praise kids for their accomplishments. Focus on the effort and not the outcome. When it is necessary to correct behavior be honest and direct. Avoid the use of demeaning and condescending words. 

3.     Give hugs and compliments. Share your feelings of praise and love with children and teens. Never skimp on compliments. Be realistic and truthful; kids can feel if you’re not being sincere. 

4.     Help kids be rational.  Children and teens can be their own worse critics and view themselves in an irrational way. Help them to be honest and accurate while evaluating their strengths and weaknesses. Teach them skills to manage or change their liabilities while showing gratitude for their strengths and talents. 

5.     Keep communication open.  Allow youth to express their feelings and opinions without sharing critical feedback. Respect their opinion, be a good listener and encourage opportunities for them to self-advocate.

Promote a healthy self-image and build confidence in children and teens by creating a safe environment, involving them in activities that promote cooperation rather than competition and sharing empowering messages.

The Empowerment Project    www.vikkicarrel.com