Healthy Kids, Happy Kids

Fifteen Ways to Help Children Like Themselves

Self-Esteem
  1. Reward children. Give praise, recognition, a special privilege or increased responsibility for a job well done. Emphasize the good things they do, not the bad.
  2. Take their ideas, emotions and feelings seriously. Don t belittle them by saying, "It s not as bad as you think," or "Don't worry about it."
  3. Define limits and rules clearly and enforce them; but do allow leeway for your children within these limits.
  4. Be a good role model. Let your children know that you feel good about yourself. Also, let them see that you too can make mistakes and learn from them.
  5. Teach your children how to deal with time and money. Help them spend time wisely and budget their money carefully.
  6. Have reasonable expectations for your children. Help them to set reachable goals so they can achieve success.
  7. Help your children develop tolerance toward those with different values, backgrounds and norms. Point out the good and strengths within others.
  8. Give your children responsibility; they will feel useful and valued.
  9. Be available. Give your children your support when they need it.
  10. Show your children that what they do is important to you. Talk with them about their activities and interests. Go to their games, Parents' Day at school, drama presentations, and awards ceremonies.
  11. Express your values, but go beyond, "Do this," or "I want you to do that." Describe the experiences that determine your values, the decisions you make to accept certain beliefs, the reasons behind your feelings.
  12. Spend time together. Share favorite activities.
  13. Discuss problems without placing blame or commenting on a child's character. If children know that there is a problem but don't feel attacked, they are more likely to help look for a solution.
  14. Use phrases that build self-esteem, such as, "Thank you for helping," or "That was an excellent idea." Avoid phrases that hurt self-esteem, such as, "Why are you so stupid?" or "How many times have I told you?"
  15. Show how much you care about your children. Hug them. Tell them they are terrific and you love them.