I am so glad you brought up this subject about self-esteem as I am guilty of having a low self-esteem at times and I definitely don't want my children cursed with such an attitude. The good new is now I know why and what causes issues in negative self-esteem and I want to share these ideas with you.
Well first of all, to get it all defined correctly, self-esteem is divided into four main categories:
- Academic Competence
- Social Competence
- Athletic Competence
- Physical Appearance
As you can see there are many areas where a child can be positively or negatively influenced according to there self-esteem. So the factors are endless on the outcome of your child's total self-confidence. One thing is for sure, self-esteem is such a critical issue among young children and during these early years it is so important to help them to develop positive self-esteem so they might have a lasting imprint on there total self-worth. So here are some tips on improving and encouraging a positive self-esteem for your child.
- The most influencing factor on self-esteem is physical appearance, which effects how the child feels about his total self-worth. Of course the negative influence on this part of self-esteem is the one and only TV. Yes, that's right, so if you want to help your child's self-esteem just turn the box off. TV imprints on children what they should look like and gives them people to compare themselves to. You want them to be unique, confident, and happy about they way God created them.
- And even more importantly, examine your own self-esteem as children will mimic your attitude about yourself. Are you always downing your appearance or abilities in front of your child. Well you can expect your child to mimic these attitudes as they progress in age.
- Warm, positive parenting gives children the assurance that they are a valuable, capable, integral part of the family and society.
- Teaching your children to evaluate themselves based on sensible standards helps them to make smart choices and expectations for themselves.
- Give your child constant encouragement to give effort and thought into there actions and choices. Always instill hope, love, and kindness with in them.
- MOST important, practice these ideas for your self, as mentioned before, your children look up to you and want to be just like you and copy all that you say, feel, do, etc....
I hope that this gives you a jump start on building a confident and capable child. Now I'm gonna go and get refreshed on some of these techniques myself, starting by turning off that darn TV.
Your Friend,
Ashlee
