Self-esteem is related to how we see ourselves but also to how well we know ourselves (positive and negative elements). In addition, it is related to how beautiful we feel about ourselves, as well as how much we accept who we are.
A person’s self-esteem is formed during childhood and is influenced by specific experiences. The family environment is the first and most important source of building a healthy high self-esteem of a child. Parents play a crucial role in the healthy development of their child’s high self-esteem.
Tips for parents to help build their child’s healthy high self-esteem:
- Address your child by name. His/her name is identified with himself/herself and his/her personality.
- Avoid using criticism. Avoid giving labels to the child.
- If you are very angry about a behavior or an incident, avoid communicating until you regain your composure and calmness.
- Do not require them to be perfect. There are no perfect children, nor are there perfect parents!
- Assign your child responsibilities and homework. It makes him/her feel useful and helps him/her develop his/her independence and autonomy.
- An important role in the good adaptation of the child at school is the relationship he/she will create with the class teacher. As parents it is important to maintain a neutral attitude and not to express our dissatisfaction in front of the child for the ways of teaching or the ways of managing the teacher’s class. In such cases it is better to have a discussion with the teacher directly about issues that concern us. Finally, cooperation with teachers is of utmost importance.
- Help your child develop talents and skills.
- Spend time with your child. It is important to spend time playing, walking and shopping with your child. Be immediately available, which gives the child a sense of security.
- Improve your self-confidence. Avoid transmitting your fears and insecurities.
- Development of children’s Social Skills (play, relationships with other children and teachers, proper ways of resolving conflicts).
- Avoid setting goals and expectations that are too high. Avoid stressing and constantly making mistakes.
- Listen to them. Every little or big story he/she has to tell you is important.
- Pay attention to what he/she does. Reward every small and big effort.
- Ignore simple unwanted behaviors.
Militsa Demetriou
Registered School / Educational Psychologist (Registration Number 423)