The cultivation of a child's confidence begins at home. In many ways, children learn it from the behaviors and attitudes of their parents. Additionally, secure homes that inspire safety, routine and imagination are of the utmost importance. Creating any activity relating to your child's confidence should always promote trust and respect. Furthermore, Austin Child Guidance Center warns that such activities should never allow you to compare your child's abilities, talents or shortcomings, against those of another child. If you support their interests and give plenty of affection, you're off to an excellent start.
Responsibility
One set of activities you can introduce are responsibilities. Dr. William Sears states that children as young as 2 years old can be given small jobs that they are held accountable for. The activity could be as simple as picking up toys. The major motive is that, as kids grow older, responsibilities that are regularly enforced instill values in them; values are then associated with a sense of worth, of self-worth and accountability. In this way, kids will feel involved in the family structure more immediately -- and they will feel as if they're important, worthwhile members from early on.
Affection and Communication
Affection is an important aspect of any child's life and family -- and parents are the primary providers of it. How to Stop Bullying suggests little notes in a child's lunch box and little expressions of "honest praise." Set a time aside after school for the child to talk about their day or to express how they feel about certain issues. This will help them manage emotions and assign worth to them. Speak to them in a calm, supportive voice that reassures their opinions are valid. Of course, plenty of hugs and kisses won't hurt.
Talents
Encourage the things your kid is good at. Sometimes parents assume that their kids will have talents or interests similar to their own. When this proves not to be the case, a child may come to the conclusion that the talents or interests they possess are not worthwhile. Set up times where you play with them relating to their interests. Schedule lessons if it applies. Read books about the subject with them or watch films together. If the child likes history, find local sites of importance and plan an educational field trip. If they like the theater, take them to a play. It's not just because it's fun but because a child who thinks their skills matter will see a path for themselves and feel a sense of self-worth.
Monitoring and Bullying
Parents can't control everything a child does or everyone they meet. One good idea is to set up activities such as parties where you can meet your child's friends. This offers an opportunity to observe how they communicate and whether those friends are good for your child's self-esteem. You can also see if your child is uncomfortable around his peers -- this may be an indication of bullying. Warning signs for bullying include anxiety, difficulty eating or sleeping, reduced interest in things they usually enjoy and, finally, exhibiting fear during what seem like normal activities, such as going to school or the bus stop.
Member Comments