Building self esteem is one of the most important things you can do for your child.Increased confidence can help your child in overcoming obstacles and trying new things.  It helps him or her accept responsibility and be proud of his accomplishments.  Creating a positive self image for your child is a gift that keeps on giving over the years.

Children develop their sense of importance and belonging by the way you interact and talk with them. The most simple way to increase esteem with your child is to spend time with them. When you spend time with them or do an activity with them it shows them that they are the most important thing in your life. The language you use when talking to your children is very important as well. Remember words of encouragement are very important. You should use words of encouragement everyday. Sometimes as parents we get in this rut of saying No! Or Stop it! ect ect. We need to use more positive words when communicating with our children. It is important that we catch them being good at something. For help in this area click on the link below.

One of the best self esteem activities was actually suggested by a co worker. She had her grandchild sit down in front of a big mirror with a dry erase marker. She was able to draw over her reflection in the mirror adding other facial features as well as accessories. What a great way to get get to know yourself and have fun too!

Build a scrapbook with your child. Make a scrapbook with some pictures of things you and your family do together. Pictures will generate discussions of memories and plans for the future. A scrapbook will help the child understand his importance in the family.

Give your child a task that they are responsible for. Maybe they can be in charge of feeding the family pet or sweeping the sidewalk. Praise them for the effort they put into doing their best.

Catch them doing something good. Sometimes children have diffculty following directions or maybe they just want your attention constantly. Praise them for the simple things they do.. like putting a dish in the sink or garbage in the garbage can.

Create teachable moments. These are the times you can create a memory and teach your child at the same time.  All teachable moments are not planned.  Sometimes they just occur and you have to seize the moment.  I know it sounds  a little afterschool specialish  but it does work.