How to Boost Your Child’s Self-Esteem

We all get the blues sometimes and might struggle with our self-esteem, whether we’re a child or adults!  

Many children feel lost or confused about why they feel the way they do. And that’s where we come in, picking them up and reminding them of how special they truly are.  

As parents, you have the power to make a real change in the way your child sees themselves.  

Every parent wants their child to be confident enough to make new friends, raise their hand in class, or get involved in more fun activities.  

Tackling self-esteem can be a challenge, but there are many simple techniques you can do to help your child develop a positive self-image.  

Research published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology suggests children who feel loved and supported, are more likely to have higher self-esteem. But how do you build confidence in children? And what does that look like in practice? 

Tips to help boost self-esteem

Having a healthy sense of self-esteem is essential for children to feel confident in their abilities and to feel good about their self-image. It is especially important for their well-being and mental health.

Here are five tips on how to build children’s confidence, we believe this can help boost academic success, socialisation, and having a positive mindset for life:

1. Praise your child’s effort, not just achievements

We want children to understand that applying effort to a task or goal is something to be proud of. When children are praised for effort, they will have the opportunity to develop a growth mindset and understand that the more effort they apply, the more success they will reap.

Instead of simply saying to your child “Great job!”, maybe try “I’m so proud of how hard you’ve worked to prepare for your test!”.

This will encourage children to realise that their efforts are valued and appreciated, therefore, they will keep trying.

2. Encourage your child to try new things!

Motivating your child to participate in new activities can be a great benefit for their confidence and self-esteem. Children might be scared to try something new, out of fear of getting it wrong or their self-doubt, but be sure to encourage your little one to just give it a go!

Whether a new sport, skill, or hobby, when your children get involved in new experiences it teaches them mistakes are normal, and trying new things is invaluable!

Whether they are trying hurdles and consistently keep face-planting the floor or playing rounders and keep missing the ball…

Encourage your child by saying something like, “I know trying something new can be hard sometimes, but I know you can do it! And I believe in you.”

There are several hobbies to get your child exploring such as painting, jigsaws, and musical instruments!

3. Celebrate successes (Even the small ones!)

Celebrating your children can make them feel proud and accomplished, this will naturally encourage them to work hard and focus on their goals. Whether it’s an academic goal or a general goal, be invested and actively engage in conversations with them about their success. And if you see them start enjoying a hobby or activity, look for ways to expand that skill.

Are they enjoying arts and crafts? See what supplies you can get them that will assist in motivation and growing their skills.

4. Model positive self-talk

As some know, the “do as I say, not as I do” approach doesn’t necessarily benefit every child.

Many children learn by example. A child needs to have positive role models in their lives, who can portray positive self-talk and positive self-criticism.

Focusing on positive qualities and accomplishments can teach children to focus on celebrating the good, and if there is anything “bad”, then that can be fixed!

For example, instead of stating “I have terrible time management.” You could say “I’m proud I finished that project in time, now I need to organise my next one!”

Reminding children that adults also aren’t perfect, and are still learning every day, can teach your child to have a realistic view of their day-to-day life.

5. Foster a positive, supportive environment.

Finally, it’s important to foster a positive, supportive environment.

When creating a safe space, you’re unconsciously giving your child permission to be their true, unique self. They can make mistakes, adapt, and grow with no pressure or external judgement.

They will feel secure in themselves knowing you support what they do, no matter how loud, adrenaline-pumping or creative!

When we allow our children to be their true selves, we will most probably surprise ourselves. Yes, your mini-me is growing much quicker than you thought!

The power of encouragement

They say, “Encouragement is like a superpower that parents and caregivers have.”

When your little hero feels supported and encouraged, they’ll believe in their abilities more than ever before.

If they are feeling a little insecure, be sure to do some child-appropriate activities to pick them up! Whether that is singing, dancing, or playing in the park.

You might be wondering, “What are the best ways to just encourage my little one?”

You can give them, words of praise, compliments, or just a big ol’ bear hug!

Your kiddo will feel like the greatest superhero with you standing by their side. By offering encouragement, we help our little ones feel valued, appreciated, and able to achieve anything they set their bright minds to.

So, next time your child takes on a new challenge, hobby, or skill, whether that be riding a bike, building LEGO, or arts & crafts, be sure to be their inner cheerleader.

Offer them all the validation they need to be their best self.

Remember, with encouragement; the sky is the limit for your mini-me!

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