Self Esteem

Self esteem is how a child perceives themselves and encompasses self-confidence and self-acceptance.

Self esteem in children is how they feel about themselves and is linked to how well they are able to do something.

Self esteem is facilitated by different sources during different stages of a child’s development.

A child learns self-esteem in stages through developing their senses of trust, independence, and initiative.

Building, enhancing or maintaining a child’s self esteem is very important.

Self esteem can be enhanced and influenced by adults. A child who feels loved and has a sense of security develops a positive sense of worth.

The attention, bond and connection a child develops influences a child’s self esteem. Positive connections promotes positive self esteem.

Self esteem is about liking yourself, who you are and developing a positive attitude towards yourself.

Sharing with children, as well as showing them that they are important is one way to allow the child to feel accepted and loved and builds their confidence and self esteem.

For a child knowing they are a part of a family, the community promotes self esteem development.

Each time they learn a new skill they add to their sense of their ability and their comprehension of who they are.

It is normal for a child at some point in their life when they have a low self esteem.

Many factors can contribute to a child having low self esteem.

Examples such as criticism from an adult, unrealistic goals or expectations, etc.

Common signs of low self esteem:

• Displaying general signs of not liking themselves.
• A child feeling the need to constantly please others.
• Feelings of unhappiness constantly.
• Needing constant validation or approval.
• Having no friends or trouble making friends.
• Feeling that a child needs to prove they are better than everyone else.
• Avoiding a task without even attempting. This demonstrates a fear of failure.
• They give up at the first sign of frustration.
• Signs of regression with their behaviour.
• Withdraws socially.
• Has difficulty in receiving praise or criticism.
• Makes self critical comments.

It is when a child exhibits prolonged low self esteem that can pose risks.

A wide range of issues have been linked to low self esteem:

• Aggressive behaviour.
• Physical problems.
• Lack of interest in or achievement in school.
• Bullying.

As a child grows older the consequences of low self esteem may result in more dire consequences such as alcohol or drug abuse, suicide, teenage pregnancy, dropping out of school, criminal activity, etc.

• Encouraging and nurturing each child and their individual differences.
• Foster a sense of independence.
• Promoting positive self esteem through praise, by celebrating their achievements, reminding them of their accomplishments and milestones.
• Allowing them to be helpful.
• Listening to them and showing them that what they have to say matters.
• Respecting them.
• Giving them time- spending time with them and showing you care and want to be with them.
• Letting them know it is OK to make mistakes and that we all make mistakes.
• Involving them in tasks they can succeed in to gain a sense of accomplishment.
• Asking for and listening to their opinions.
• Not being over critical- try to not criticize them at all.
• Encouraging and supporting various social settings.
• Support them in learning to make their own decisions.
• Praise and show you are proud of them and their efforts.
• Foster a growth mindset. A child with a growth mindset believe their abilities can improve over time.Help your child re-frame negative thoughts and statements.