Supporting your Child with Self-esteem

Self-esteem is feeling good about ourselves, that we belong and that we have an important place in the world.  We aren’t born with self-esteem, but rather it is something we learn and develop as we grow.  Self-esteem is a major factor in feeling confident to try new things and develop new skills. It is also an important factor to building healthy relationships with others and feeling able to participate in social activities. 

In the primary school years, self-esteem is about managing learning new tasks, making new friends, participating in sport and other activities, and having a positive body image. Home stressors or changing dynamics, challenges with schoolwork and problems with bullying can all affect a child’s self-esteem.

Parents and caregivers play a vital role in the development of a child’s self-esteem.  Children develop self-esteem from the way important people in their lives treat them. Parentlink offers some great tips to support parents in supporting their children’s self-esteem:

• Tell your child that you love them and do so at random times not just in relation to a specific achievement
• Spend time playing with your child and take an interest in their interests
• Show respect for your child and listen to their views and opinions
• Encourage friendships and welcome your child’s friends into your home
• Include your child in family activities and help them to understand their roots, culture and history so they have a sense of belonging
• Celebrate your child’s successes and keep special mementos of their achievements
• Get involved in your child’s education and school community
• Keep little family rituals such as story time or walking the dog together
• Show your child you have faith in them. Support them to build problem solving skills rather than solving things for them
• Teach your child to trust their instincts
• Teach your child about personal safety and that it is always okay to say ‘no’ to protect themselves
  
  

For more information, please visit Self-esteem - Parentlink (act.gov.au)

Or contact your school counsellors Bron or Ryoko if you feel your child could benefit from any further support.