How to build children's self-esteem

The article was consulted with - Doctor Le Thu Phuong - Pediatrician - Neonatologist - Department of Pediatrics - Neonatology - Vinmec Hai Phong International General Hospital.

Nurturing a preschooler's self-esteem can seem like a daunting responsibility. Because even the most confident adults sometimes feel bad about themselves. Here are some suggestions for teaching kids about self-esteem in a healthy, age-appropriate way.

Cuddle, kiss, and pat your baby on the back, expressing often how much you love her, no matter who she is or what she does. A child's self-esteem grows when you accept her for who she is, regardless of her strengths or weaknesses, all of her temperaments and abilities.
When you have to discipline your child, make it clear that his behavior is unacceptable, not that the parent hates the child himself. For example, instead of saying, "You're so naughty! Why won't you be obedient?", say, "It's not good to push you down like that, because it could hurt you. Promise your mom not to push you anymore. Please."

Give your child some alone time with their parents, without distractions, without sharing with siblings or anyone else around. Go for a walk together or have a one-on-one chat for 30 minutes before bed. This will magically raise their self-worth, sending the message that they are important to you.
You don't have to be really free to nurture your child's self-esteem. You just need to take a moment to stop reading emails while your child is talking to you, or turn off the TV and phone to answer all of their questions. Eye contact is also a way to show that you're really listening to what your child has to say.

Know that some family rules will help build a child's self-esteem. For example, if you've asked your child to eat at the table, don't let him roam the house with a cracker and piece of fruit in hand.
You may have to repeat it over and over, but your child will soon begin to function in the pattern you want. Just be clear and consistent, and show your child that you trust them and expect them to do the right thing.

For a 2-year-old, the general rule is to give him 2 options, because he can't make too many decisions at this age. For example, ask your child if he wants to wear a red or yellow shirt; want to have breakfast with oatmeal or milky cereal.
3 - 4 year olds can handle more choices. Letting your child know that you trust their judgment will help them increase their self-worth and also teach them about self-esteem.

If the child puts the plate too close to the edge of the table and falls, try to control it, do not yell or hit the child. Instead, encourage your child to think of ways to fix it so it doesn't happen again next time. Help your child understand that everyone makes mistakes, and that they don't need to feel so down about themselves.
Same with parents. If you make a mistake, calm down and admit it, then move on with life. Children need to know that sometimes a little stupid, a little fight is okay. When you help your child deal with the consequences smoothly, it is also easier for him to accept his shortcomings.

Get a stool so your child can easily wash their hands and brush their teeth at the sink. Find a place to keep toys and books within reach of your child. Buy clothes that are easy to put on and take off. By helping your child take care of her own needs, you will foster her self-esteem and independence; You will also be proud of your ability to work.

Every day, take note of the good things your child has done and deliberately let them hear. For example, tell your husband, "I washed all the vegetables for dinner today" and look at him beaming with pride.
Be more specific, instead of saying: "Good / Good", say: "Thank you for waiting patiently in line." You'll enhance your child's sense of accomplishment by letting him know exactly what he did right.

When your child is fussy because he has to leave the playground and go home, do your best to see this from his or her point of view. For a toddler, leaving the park can feel like the end of the world.
Help your child get comfortable with his feelings by saying, "I know you're upset because you have to go home." By accepting your child's feelings without judgment, you will show that you also value his words and thoughts, thereby teaching him about self-esteem.

Avoid making comments like, "Why aren't you as smart as friend A / as good as friend B?" Comments like this only destroy children's self-esteem, making them feel bad about themselves. Even positive comparisons, like saying your child is the best at something, has the potential to be damaging for a child, because they must then try to live up to this image.
If you let your child know that you appreciate his uniqueness, rather than comparing based on others, he will be more likely to appreciate himself.

One of the best ways to build and nurture a child's self-esteem is for parents to prove themselves, too. Show pride in yourself and your efforts, and do your best not to say things like, "I'm stupid/ lousy" every time you make a mistake.

Every child needs support from loved ones, let them know: "I believe in you. I see your efforts. Keep going!" Incentive means recognizing progress, not just rewarding achievements. So, if your child is having a hard time buttoning his shirt, instead of rushing in, say, "You're working hard and you're going to do it!" That makes them feel good about themselves even if they haven't mastered the skill yet.
Thus, to teach children about self-esteem from an early age, it is important that you help them overcome early failures, cultivate a sense of pride, self-esteem and confidence in their abilities. when facing new challenges in life.
Parents can rely on the above ways to build self-esteem in their children, forming good character in their children. If parents have difficulties in taking care of and teaching their children, they can go to Vinmec International General Hospital to visit and receive the best advice from doctors and psychologists.

Reference source: babycenter.com