Happiness and success depend largely on self-esteem, according to the Child Development Institute. If you feel better about yourself, your behavior reflects those feelings, and you appear more confident and outgoing. A child with high self-esteem shows independence and is comfortable assuming responsibility; she also can better tolerate frustration. However, a child with low self-esteem lacks emotional reactions, avoids trying new things and is easily influenced by others. Select activities to develop your child's self-esteem.
Five Best
With your child, create a list of five of his strengths or accomplishments. Developing this list will help him think positively about himself and increase his self-esteem. Place the list somewhere easily and often seen by your child, so any time he feels down, he can glance at the list for a quick self-esteem boost.
Positive Self-Talk
Practice positive self statements with your child. What you think determines how you feel, and how you feel determines how you act, according to the Child Development Institute. Teaching your child to think positively about herself also teaches her to feel positive, and feeling positive about herself equates to higher self-esteem.
Sports
Physical group activities improve a child's self-esteem by providing a sense of teamwork and camaraderie. Experiencing the joys of the game with others helps your child develop a sense of self-awareness. It also helps him feel good about himself for his contribution to the team. Enrolling your child in sports may help develop his self-esteem.
Spotlight
Put your child in the spotlight by naming her "special child of the day." Have everyone in your group or family share one kind thought about the "special child of the day." When the nice statements have been made, ask the child to share some interesting facts about herself, such as her favorite animal, activity or color. The attention she receives increases her self-esteem by making her feel better about herself. This activity also will make her feel loved and valued.
Art
Encourage your child to draw, color, paint or sculpt. Works of art will forever be treasured by you, while your child will be proud of his work. Add to his sense of pride by displaying his best work. Keep his drawings somewhere easily visible so your child can look at the art and receive a frequent boost to his self-esteem.
