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- Developing Your Child's Self Esteem
- By: BRET WHETMAN
Self-esteem is fundamental to achievement, fulfillment, and enjoyment of life. Positive self-esteem is probably the most basic requirement for mental health. It reflects confidence in our ability to think and cope with the challenges of life, confidence in our right to be happy and worthy, to assert our needs and achieve our goals, and to enjoy our experiences and accomplishments. Around the start of school, children begin to engage in social comparison with peers and feel the need to compare and compete in addition to the standards set by adults. Judgment of self becomes heavily influenced by these comparisons and can determine whether self-esteem is enhanced or diminished. Therefore it is important to consider children's comparison processes and the attributions they make in various settings. If your child doesn’t swell with confidence like Michael Jordan, don’t worry. Fortunately, there are several things that you can do to promote a healthy level of self esteem for your child and many of them are simple and quick techniques. One of the most impactful methods is to outwardly express your appreciation for their accomplishments and efforts. What I’m talking about is more than a gratuity “Good job” or “Way to go”. What’s really needed is something visual, substantial, and meaningful. If they’ve played any little league or school sports then you are sitting on a gold mine. Most likely they have some awards, participation trophies, pictures, ribbons, medals, a team autographed ball, something or anything that symbolizes their efforts and competitiveness. Are those items now in boxes, closets, or scattered around their room? If so, then I would suggest getting a personal display made. A display that; will have their name engraved on it, easy to update, accommodates various types of memorabilia, one that will proudly display all their accomplishments in an attractive arrangement that you, their friends, and everyone can admire. When their memorabilia and achievements are showcased you will be honestly expressing how proud of them you are. Consequently, you will be promoting their pride, confidence and self worth, making them very happy and self assured for years to come. For example, the custom displays by Wall of Famer offer name engraving, showcase lighting, custom colors, choice of sport, hooks, rod, shelving, etc. to maximize the esteem factor. They can be found at