Raising a Confident, Capable, Contented Child ~ Part 1



Make your child feel special

Molding of a child’s self worth starts in his formative years where the parents are the major role players. The parent’s positive reinforcements will determine how a child feels about himself and the others around him. Lin Buress in her article entitled Improving Self-Esteem in Kids says: "The overall happiness and success of children primarily depends on parents building self-confidence in their children, as having high self-esteem will have tremendous impact on a child’s success and independence as adults."

Being your child’s selective cheerleader will help him have faith in his abilities and be eager to tackle new risks. Being overboard and cheering 24/7 will result in an arrogant or conceited individual that not many people will like. On the Kidshealth site their article Developing Your Child's Self-Esteem explains: "It's important for parents to identify kids' irrational beliefs about themselves, whether they're about perfection, attractiveness, ability, or anything else. Helping kids set more accurate standards and be more realistic in evaluating themselves will help them have a healthy self-concept. Inaccurate perceptions of self can take root and become reality to kids."

How Do Parents Achieve a Happy Balance Between Praise and Helpful Criticism

Accentuate the Positives

Remember there are no set moulds that fit every child. Each child is unique and your parenting techniques have to be adjusted for your situation. But giving your child feedback, both praise and helpful criticism, is necessary for your youngster. Praise will let him know he is on the right track. Helpful criticism will get him back on track, and if well done, will give him tips to avoid similar pitfalls and to apply to other disappointments or failures.

The golden rule in building self worth in a child is to start early and to always be truthful. Any event during childhood is a great opportunity to start boosting your child’s view of himself. You want the youngster to feel proud and pleased with himself not just to feel he pleased his parents. However, only give praise when it is warranted. The praise must be sincere because in his heart he will know if he has earned it.

Make sure they know
their strengths

When celebrating an achievement, praise the positive steps, the preparation, the persistence on your child’s part that made this a success. By pointing these out, it arms him with tools for the sub conscience for getting the next project done right.

Be selective and truthful with your praise as well as with your criticism. You must applaud your child’s efforts and improvements but be realistic. This constant pouring of praise can backfire and result in a spoiled, awful child who has no regard for others nor their feelings. At all times, strive for a healthy balance between praise, helpful criticism and knowing when to let it go.


How to Build Self Confidence

Let them be themselves

To tip the balance in your child’s favor, plan activities in an area you know your child is good. His skill in this activity will give you the opportunity to praise him and a feeling of accomplishment on his part. Age-appropriate responsibilities around the house will also provide opportunities to experience success. The Family Education site has many confidence-boosting activities, tips, and expert advice to turn things around if your child shows signs of low self-esteem.Look constantly to give positive affirmation of his qualities, attempts and achievements. Making your child feel loved and lovable paves the way to better relationships and success at school.

Related Post:

Raising a Confident, Capable, Contented Child ~  Part 2