How Words of Respect and Love Build Self Esteem in Children and Teens

In today's world children are bombarded with negative influences that can destroy their self-esteem.  As parents it is important that we do all we can to help our kids build self-confidence.  We need to teach our kids how to respect and love themselves so that they can respect and love others. Writing "I Treasure You" is an effective way to focus on the positive because you are helping your child see how valuable he or she is in your eyes. Children need the leadership and vision of a parent to become what they cannot see for themselves.

As parents, it is our responsibility to see to our children's mental and emotional health as well as their physical needs.  One vital area is building a child's self-confidence.  When a child does not have high self-esteem, they are at risk for many detrimental things, particularly during the teen years.  There is so much pressure on kids to do the wrong thing.  If they are not secure in whom they are, they will succumb to the temptations and end up in trouble.  This is why it is so important that we affirm that they are valuable to us.

Some self-esteem activities can go a long way in building a child's self-confidence.  One proven self-esteem building method is to affirm your child.  It is not enough to give general praise such as 'good job'.  Being specific has a greater lasting impact.  For example, saying 'You took out the trash without being asked.  You are really being responsible' is better than simply saying 'thanks for taking out the trash'.  By identifying the positive character quality, you are reinforcing that positive behavior. When you write these out on an "I Treasure You" note, your child has a growing pile of evidence that he or she is worthwhile and loved.

Listening to your children is another way of building confidence.  When an adult takes the time to fully focus on what a child is saying, it tells that child that they are worthy of respect and love.  While you are listening, validate the child's feelings so they know that they are not alone.  Knowing that someone understands and cares can make a huge difference in a child's self-confidence. 

Setting goals can also be helpful in building a child's self-esteem.  Make the goals small and realistic.  Seek your child's input so that they will feel as if they have control over it.  These goals should focus on developing positive character traits so that the child can feel good about themselves.  Be sure to encourage them and praise them when they make progress. 

Self-esteem building in children is vital to their health and well being.  It is the responsibility of those with parenting influence to teach their children to respect and love themselves and others.  Listening to your kids and using specific positive affirmations written on "I Treasure You" note cards will go a long way towards building self-confidence.  Additionally, setting achievable goals will help kids feel a sense of accomplishment therefore raising their self-esteem levels.  With some effort and commitment, parents can teach their children to have a healthy sense of self-worth.