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The building blocks of a child’s self esteem are built early on in their young lives. This is a process not an event. The great part is that there are many moments every day where you can help to build a child up so they can grow up to be a healthy adult.
Experts say every child shines in at least one discipline. It’s your job as a parent to discover and encourage your child’s gifts, while downplaying any weaknesses.
How do you discover your child’s gifts? Where do you start? Here’s what the experts say:
- Watch your child carefully. Provide a few choices and observe which toy or activity your child prefers.
- Ask age-appropriate questions. For a toddler: “What is your dolly’s name?” For a 6-year-old: “When you rolled in the leaves, how did they feel and sound?” For a high-schooler: “What do you think of the president? Is he doing a good job?”
- Catch your child being good. Don’t ignore your child when he or she is quiet and engrossed in an activity; reinforce this with praise.
- Help your child advance, without over-challenging her. If she likes to pick out tunes on the piano, read to her about a musical role model; browse in a music shop; take her to a recital; suggest lessons.
- Follow your child’s lead. Support the choices your child makes, even if they are not the ones you’d expected.
Read more about “How to Find Your Child’s Gifts” at OHealthy.
What do you do to build your child’s self esteem?
