Self-esteem Toolkit

Why Self-Esteem Matters

Children who feel good about themselves have the confidence to try new things. They are more likely to try their best. They feel proud of what they can do.

Self-esteem helps children cope with mistakes. It helps children try again, even if they fail at first. As a result, self-esteem helps kids do better at school, at home, and with friends.

Children with low self-esteem feel unsure of themselves. If they think others won't accept them, they may not join in. They may let others treat them poorly. They may have a hard time standing up for themselves. They may give up easily, or not try at all. Children with low self-esteem find it hard to cope when they make a mistake, lose, or fail. As a result, they may not do as well as they could.

How Parents Can Build Self-Esteem

Every child is different. Self-esteem may come easier to some than others.  But even if a child's self-esteem is low, it can be raised.

Here are things parents can do to help children feel good about themselves: 

  • Help your child learn to do things. 
  • When teaching kids how to do things, show and help them at first. 
  • Praise your child, but don't overpraise. Praise effort, progress and attitude
  • Be a good role model.
  • Ban harsh criticism. 
  • Focus on strengths.