Self esteem is acquired not inherited, so its our job, as parents, to develop a healthy self-esteem in our children – it is a passport to a lifetime of mental well-being and happiness. Children who feel good about themselves find it easier to handle challenges and resists negative pressures.
- Encourage your child to express his or her feelings. Remind your child that everyone experiences sadness, fear and anxiety, even adults, at some time or another.
- Listen to your child without interruption. They will learn that they can come to you in any situation.
- Promote trust. Do not judge your child. Keep your voice calm - even when you don't agree. Let them know that you are willing to talk about any subject without fear of a negative reaction.
- Look at your own coping skills. Are you setting a good example to your children – do you fly into a rage easily or avoid decision making and challenges? If you feel overwhelmed by a situation, don’t be afraid to seek professional help.
- Encourage your child's strengths and accept their weaknesses. Nobody is good at everything. Avoid the temptation to compare your child with other children. This will give your child a realistic self-image and self-acceptance.
- Foster independence and self-worth. Give your child age appropriate tasks at home and praise them accordingly, i.e. put their toys away etc, and tell them that they are Mummy’s best helper. We never grow out of being praised.
- Discipline constructively and fairly. Warn your child of the consequences of bad behaviour and follow through. Children respond to fairness and will respect you, even if they don’t show it at the time. Always end a period of discipline with a calm explaination of why you punished them - and a hug.
- Love unconditionally. Nobody will love you like your parents do – so tell your children you love them every day.
- You will never be a perfect parent. Just do your best.
