20 secrets about children's self-esteem

20 secrets about children's self-esteem

Self-esteem is a popular subject among those who work with children. Why are early childhood educators so preoccupied with building the self-esteem of the children they care for? How important is self-esteem? Studies and books written by psychologists on the subject abound and clearly demonstrate the lasting impact children's self-esteem can have on their future, both positively and negatively. Having read countless documents on the subject, I thought it might be interesting to share 20 secrets about children's self-esteem.

1. Self-esteem is the little flame that shines through a child's eyes when he is proud of himself.
2. Children (and adults) who have good self-esteem are happier.
3. Children need encouragement to build their self-esteem.
4. hildren need to learn from their mistakes, not be criticized for them.
5. Children need to be forgiven.
6. Children need to feel loved and accepted for who and what they are, their strengths and weaknesses.
7. Children with good self-esteem can make choices.
8. Children with good self-esteem enjoy healthier, more positive relationships with others.
9. To build their self-esteem, children need you to spend quality time with them.
10. To develop their self-esteem, children need clear rules and stability.
11. We must help children find solutions instead of taking care of things for them. This will have important repercussions on their self-esteem.
12. Children need to trust you.
13. Children need to have fun with the adult that cares for them.
14. Children need you to notice their successes.
15. Unfortunately, children are not born with a ready-made positive image of themselves. Their self-esteem is created gradually, one success at a time.
16. The first years of a child's life are extremely important for the development of his self-esteem.
17. Children's self-esteem is directly related to the relationships they build with the people who are important to them.
18. Fostering children's creativity will improve their self-esteem.
19. To encourage children, we must focus on their efforts, not on their successes.
20. Children need an adult to set an example by believing in them.

Simple and efficient, these secrets are important when it comes down to ensuring children are given a good start in life.

Maude Dubé, Specialized educator