Mental health is a growing issue all around the globe. Especially, in Singapore, concerns about youth mental health have come to the forefront of the nation’s consciousness in recent times.
Did you know, positive self-esteem protects mental health?
Building confidence contributes to positive social behaviour and cushions the impact of negative situations and stress.
It is also one of the most important features of healthy development in a child. A child's behavioural, social, and emotional health play important roles in how they handle peer pressure, setbacks, and other challenges throughout life.
What is Healthy Self-Esteem?
Self-esteem is simply how children perceive themselves—including what they think of themselves and how capable they are of doing do things. It's gradually moulded by the extent to which they feel loved, and the amount of encouragement (or criticism) and support they receive from significant people in their life, like their parents and teachers.
Being self-confident does not mean being self-centered or that your needs are more important than those of others. Likewise, healthy self-esteem is not narcissism, arrogance, or a sense of entitlement.
Here are some important ways you can build your child's self-esteem positively:
1. Show Unconditional Love Every Day
Knowing the large extent you love them gives your children a sense of security and belonging that significantly affects their view of themselves. Your unconditional love helps lay a foundation for them to establish strong and healthy relationships later on.
Expressions of love are like hugging your kids goodbye, snuggling together to read a book, and so on. Do it every day. As your kids grow, this basis of love will aid them as they build their own social circles, make friends and bond with teammates.
2. Play Together and Have Fun
Playing with your child is important because it shows them you like spending time with them and you value them being with you. Having fun with your child generates many benefits for both of you.
Not only do kids develop confidence in their ability to be entertaining and interesting people who can forge solid social bonds, but studies have also shown a child's chances of being happy increases and their risk of anxiety and depression decreases when they play in a healthy way.
Not to mention, having fun playing greatly relieves stress.
3. Give Your Child Responsibilities and Chores
Having responsibility for chores suited to his/her age gives your child a sense of purpose and accomplishment. Even if they do not do something well, it’s important to let them know you appreciate their efforts. Praise them when they do well, and give them reassurance that over time, they'll improve at many things, including their chores.
Taking on chores and responsibilities also gives him a sense of control over his life. And in a time when things are unpredictable (COVID), having responsibility with small jobs around the house can potentially hugely benefit in building resilience and confidence.
4. Make Setbacks Learning Experiences
Emphasise the fact to your child that being human means making mistakes and we cannot be perfect. Teach your child to view setbacks as chances for growth and improvement.
Remember, be patient with your child when they make mistakes.
And, if you find they tend to experience behaviour problems or act out at school, do what you can to turn those situations around, into opportunities for growth. How you respond will help build your child's confidence and show that making mistakes does not mean the end of the world—as long as they face it healthily.
Putting in the effort to build your child's self-esteem is one of the top ways you can spend your time as a parent. And although it may take that little extra mile sometimes, you will prepare your kids for success now and in the future.
However, do remember that just as you don't expect your children to be perfect, don't expect perfection from yourself either. You may not get it right all the time, but that's perfectly fine.
As long as you're consistently trying to share positivity and love, you are building confidence in them. This is in spite of a mistake here or there.
Click here to learn about the different toddlers behavioural problems you should not ignore.
Genesis Childcare 1989
At Genesis Childcare 1989, we are passionate about children. Our teachers are passionate, dedicated, enthusiastic, caring and encouraging. We believe that every child is unique and precious and needs to be loved and cherished.
With its excellent reputation, you can therefore entrust your child to Genesis Childcare 1989 and Nurture Infant House.
If you’re looking for infant care in Tampines or anywhere in the east of Singapore, do take a look at our Nurture Infant House. With over 30 years of specialized experience, we have nurtured thousands of infants, toddlers and preschoolers alike.
For toddlers and older children looking for a preschool, you can also take a look at Genesis Childcare 1989, our playgroup and kindergarten.
Feel free to book an appointment through WhatsApp, or visit us at the following venues:
Genesis Childcare 1989 (Tampines)
Blk 433 Tampines Street 43 #01-63/65 Singapore 520433
Tel: +65 9666 4141
Nurture Infant House (Tampines)
(2 to 18 months Infants)
Blk 433 Tampines Street 43 #01-61 Singapore 520433
Tel: +65 9666 4141
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