Self Esteem

Self-esteem

Just like everything to do with wellbeing, we can all suffer from high and low self-esteem during the course of our life. But how can you tell when your child is regularly suffering from low self-esteem and what can you do about it?

  • Spotting low self-esteem.
  • Reluctant to try something new
  • Engages in negative self-talk or doubts they can do things well
  • Finds it difficult to accept praise
  • Finds it difficult to accept criticism
  • Gives up easily

Here are some things youngminds suggest you can do that can really help, but we’ve brought together our top tips from here and elsewhere.

  • Allocate time each day to spend with your child to let them know they are valued as well as laugh and appreciate life.
  • Help them set realistic goals so they can realise their achievements. This can include doing appropriate chores.
  • Praise children often, but be sincere. Refer to areas specifically. For example, “That art piece looks great!” can become more sincere by saying, “I really love the way you’ve drawn the face”, or “You’ve complemented the colours fantastically there”.
  • Help them take healthy risks and congratulate them for doing so. For example, take them climbing and praise every time they did something that pushed themselves- they were constantly challenging themselves.