Why Is Self-Esteem Important?

How we feel about and define ourselves influences our motivations, attitudes, and behaviours. Therefore, it is important that we all always feel confident and positive about ourselves.

In some cases, low self-esteem can be a symptom of a mental health disorder or emotional disturbance. Experts have also observed and believed that low self-esteem is the underlying cause of many of society's problems today.

Your preschooler's self-esteem can affect how he relates to other people. Children who feel good about themselves tend to develop positive relationships with others.

Later on, when he attends school, your child's

self-esteem can have an impact on his academic success too. If he thinks positively of himself (rather than always thinking he can't do things right) he is more likely to accept setbacks and to persevere, thus do well academically.

His self-esteem can also impact his level of creativity. Low self-esteem children are less likely

to take the risks involved in being creative than children who have positive self-perceptions.

Later on, when he attends school, your child's

self-esteem can have an impact on his academic success too. If he thinks positively of himself (rather than always thinking he can't do things right) he is more likely to accept setbacks and to persevere, thus do well academically.

His self-esteem can also impact his level of creativity. Low self-esteem children are less likely

to take the risks involved in being creative than children who have positive self-perceptions.Here are some tips for boosting your child's self-esteem:

1. Praise Generously, Appropriately, Honestly

Children are very sensitive to parents' words. Constantlylook for situations in which your child is doing good jobs, or demonstrating talents or positive character traits, andpraise him accordingly. But remember to praise for effortand completion, rather than outcome. Praise honestly too - kids can tell whether something is plain flattery, or sincerely from the heart.

2. Teach Positive Self-Statements

You need to identify your child's incorrect beliefs abouthimself, then help him set more accurate and realistic standards about himself. For example, if he is struggling with science and you hear him say "I cannot do science. I am a lousy student", correct him by saying to him "You are a good student and you are doing great in school. Science is just one of the subjects you need to spend more time on."

3. Be Spontaneous And Affectionate

There is no such thing as a shy parent! Parents' love is crucial to children's self-esteem. Hug your child often. Tell him you are proud of him. Leave loving messages on the fridge door, in the phone recorder, or in his lunch box.

4. Display Your Sense Of Humour!

Teach your Child that life certainly does not always have to be serious; some teasing can be fun too. Show him that you can laugh at yourself for little mistakes or blunders you make.

5. Have Reasonable Expectations

Like you, your child is not perfect! Let him know you accept him for who he is, flaws and all. He will then feel secure and learn to accept his own strengths and weaknesses, which in turn enhances his self-esteem.