Boost self-confidence in children

Confidence goes hand in hand with high self-esteem

All parents want their child to go through life with a healthy amount of self-confidence. This enables them to solve conflicts and problems better, formulate their own wishes and deal successfully with other people. Parents look at their children with concern when they let themselves be pushed off the swings on the playground, do not play with other children or are an outsider at school. This often leads to school bullying or school anxiety .

Anyone who values ​​themselves only slightly, questions their own skills and actions, or feels unappreciated does not have a high level of self-confidence. Only this character trait is desirable in order to get along well in life. The foundations for healthy self-confidence are laid in early childhood, even before school starts. But even later, parents can support their child in strengthening their confidence in their own abilities and their own self-esteem.

How can parents boost self-confidence in children?

Do you tend to quickly doubt yourself, give up in frustration or do you not tolerate criticism? Your child adopts many of your own behaviors. So you can only strengthen your child’s self-confidence if you set an example. As a father or mother, you are usually one of the closest people to a child and are the first to notice the son or daughter’s lack of self-confidence. Then your action is required. If you don’t feel up to the situation, child and youth counseling centers and child psychologists offer professional help.

Measures to increase self-confidence in children

Children want and deserve unconditional love. First, you should accept and love your child for who they are. Support it with lots of love and attention. Have words of appreciation for your child and also show your appreciation with gestures. Listening is a great art and especially important for children. When you ask how your son or daughter is feeling, be sure to show interest. Praise for the child is very importanta. Not only for his actions, but also for a frustrated failure. This is a great way to commend the attempt and highlight the effort. At the same time, you convey to your child that you trust him to try again and encourage him to do so. Also encourage them when they want to do things on their own: “You can do it! You’re awesome!” You should definitely avoid constantly comparing your child with others or making excessive demands. This will give your child the impression that they can’t do anything right. This greatly reduces self-esteem.
Parents can also strengthen their children’s self-confidence by giving their children responsibility. For example, give your child one or more small tasks that they have to complete independently. (E.g. setting the table, taking out the rubbish, walking the dog, shopping) If your child did a good job, praise your child; if they made mistakes, tell them. But in a reasonable tone. Fearful children would otherwise be frightened and start doubting themselves. Just encourage your child to do the task again. Sports for children such as judo for children
can also help to boost self-confidence in children!

Accept slow progress

The easiest way for your darling to demonstrate and train his self-confidence is in contact with other children. Start with a friend or two rather than a large group. You can also take part in play groups, courses such as children’s swimming or early music education . The social contacts, initially observed from a safe distance, will sometimes be very helpful for your child.

Strengthening self-esteem in children does not happen overnight! It’s a process with ups and downs. With your attention, a lot of praise and confirmation, your child can reduce insecurities from friends or classmates because of their appearance or their physical stature and face conflicts and crises with inner strength.