3 Tips on Building Self-Esteem in Youth

Self-esteem is defined as the regard for self and when considering self-esteem for children and adolescents we know how for young people who are developing and growing to have a healthy and positive view of their own self and their value.

Sadly, the self-esteem of children and adolescents can be easily torn down when they encounter extreme criticism from adults and siblings or from bullying by peers. In an effort of building and sustaining positive self-esteem for children and teens, I want to offer you three tips that will help build and support positive self-esteem.

1. Accentuate the positive!

Genuine praise is offered readily whenever we notice a child or teen exhibiting a desirable behavior. Research shows us that people respond with more desirable behavior after receiving positive reinforcement of desirable behavior. When praising youth, we want to make sure that we are praising them for specific reasons. For example, if she does well on a test, wins a basketball game, makes an effort to help around the house, acknowledging with praise for the effort helps build her self-esteem. We have to be cautious not to over-praise though! If we over praise it may come off as insincere and maybe even annoying.

2. Encourage talents and Interests!

As a child my mother encouraged me to do what I set my heart to do whether is was ballet, piano lessons, and etc. That encouragement helped me feel that my mom understood that I wanted to do different things and try new things. It also was an acknowledgement that there were some things I preferred not to do and that was okay. Encourage your child or adolescent to pursue what they are interested in and wherever their natural talents lie. It will help build up their self-esteem and strengths.

3. Teach problem-solving and decision-making!

Childhood and adolescence is ripe with challenging experiences. Through those challenge, it’s natural for youth to experience a variety of tough emotion. We need to make sure that when something happens they are guided and encouraged to problem-solve and go through the process of making appropriate decisions for situations. An example might be when she isn’t chosen for the cheerleading team or he doesn’t get acceptance to the college he wanted. It’s important to validate their feelings, support and encourage them to consider potential solutions for the situation. This will assist in building their self-esteem and increase their hope that know tough experiences can be learned from and will pass.

Supporting children and teens in building a strong sense of self-esteem is an ongoing process for parents. If you can train yourself to actively seek out the positive, encourage your child’s interests and talents and equip him with problem-solving and decision-making skills you will witness your child grow into a confident and self-sufficient young adult.