Cheli Cerra, M.Ed.,
"America's Most
Trusted School Principal"
Raising Confident
Kids
Some kids
have it and some don't but researchers all agree that good and healthy
self-esteem starts with parents. During a child's elementary school years
children form their identity and sense of self. Parents are a child's first
teacher and they need to guide their children to develop a positive sense of
identity and self-confidence. As a school principal, educator, and parent I have
experienced firsthand how important parents are in developing a child's self
confidence and how that transfers over into school success. Those children that
have parents who listen to them, provide positive praise, and allow for them to
make decisions usually have better self-confidence and better school grades then
those kids whose parents don't. I know, I have worked in the education trenches
for over 25 years! Consider the shocking statistic that I came across: Every
nine seconds a student becomes a dropout. Keep your kids on track and
provide opportunities to continue to develop their self-esteem by practicing the
tips below.
- Have
parent - child conversations daily. Engage in conversations with your child.
Ask questions. One of the best place to do this activity is in your car
especially during your morning and afternoon commute.
-
Listen to what your child has to say. Allow your child time to talk on any
topic that is on his mind.
-
Praise your child daily by using positive comments such as:
-
Thank you for...(add what your child did here)
-
You are unique
- I
knew you could do it
-
You are really smart
- I
love being with you
- Give
your children choices and allow them to make decisions to build their confidence. Example: Can you help me decide what to
have for dinner on Friday? Should we have meatloaf or chicken?
Good self
esteem starts with you - the parent. Raise a happy, healthy, safe and smart
child that will become a confident and self-assured adult by following the tips
provided.
