Sunday, November 18, 2012

Ten Tips For Boosting Your Child's Self Esteem

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Every child needs regular self esteem boosts, especially from parents. Try the following ten ways to boost your child’s self esteem.

Provide supportive praise that acknowledges choices and is specific in nature. While saying, "Good job," is fine, it's even better to say, "You did a good job cleaning up after yourself in the art room," which shows you noticed the specific choice.

Compliment your child on unique characteristics. Look for things to affirm your child on that will make her see you notice her.

Spend time with your child. When you prioritize your child over other obligations, you are communicating how important he or she is to you.

Actively listen to your child. Show you are listening by nodding and asking questions.

Support your child’s interests. That may mean sending your child to lessons, practicing with your child, and listening to him or her talk about the subject.

When you have to correct your child, focus on your child's ability to do the right thing. Keep believing that your child will obey and learn this lesson, even if it takes time.

Give your child a warm smile. You have to remember how powerful you are in your child's life; many kids are eager to please a parent, and a scowl can result in anxiety.

Shower your child with affection. Touch is a basic human need, and you are the most important person in the whole world to your child.

Take note when your child overcomes an obstacle. This can be super effective if your child has struggled to deal with a particular issue for a long time. Your compliment will make your child believe he or she can succeed.

Hang up medals, ribbons, and certificates where people can see them.

Bonus Tip: Check out parenting books for help building your child's self esteem. If you have a preteen daughter, read Reviving Ophelia; if you have kids who can't get along, read Siblings Without Rivalry. If you have a son, check out Raising Cain, and if you have an opinionated, stubborn child, check out Raising Your Spirited Child.

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