Tips On How To Help Your Child Develop A Positive Self-Esteem

No parent ever wants to see their child suffer from low self-esteem, which can happen when a child may give up mid-way through completing an activity, is too afraid to try, or becomes frustrated easily when they don’t win. Children with high self-esteem feel valued and accepted, and have a positive perspective on themselves and everyday challenges. As parents, it is our privilege to fill that void, and further their development by raising your child’s self-esteem so they will become bothprosperous and mentally healthy in the future while being able to handle life’s challenges as adults.

The Two Types Of Praising: Global Vs. Specific

Child psychologists have determined there are two types of praising parents often show their children: global and specific. Global praise is foundationless and considered filling the child with ‘hot air,’ as it is a generic form of praising where the child does not fully know or understand what they are being praised for. For instance, simply telling your child they are smart or kind, is admirable. However, the child may not fully grasp what for or how to replicate those actions to receive the same praise in the future. Specific is the foundation building blocks for self-esteem, as the parent praises the child for something they specifically accomplished, such as congratulating them on a good effort for trying skating for the first time or for acing a test they studied hard for.

Next, let’s find out how global praising is detrimental to the development of healthy confidence within a child.