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School Confidential
Raising Confidence
By Cheli Cerra, M. Ed., "America's Most Trusted Principal"
Feb 28, 2007, 20:47

 

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.

 

  1. 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.
  2. Listen to what your child has to say. Allow your child time to talk on any topic that is on his mind.
  3. 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

 

  1. 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.

     



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