Self-esteem is defined as feeling good about yourself, believing in yourself, and being aware of your strengths.

Children who feel confident in themselves:

• When things don’t go as planned, try different things and try again.
• Do activities they might not often find enjoyable or successful at
• Overcoming obstacles rather than avoiding them.
• Children learn and develop when they try new things, overcome obstacles, and overcome them again. Because of this, a child’s development can benefit from having high self-esteem.

Infants’ self-esteem

Babies who are newborns or very young children lack true self-esteem. This is due to the fact that kids do not yet recognise themselves as unique individuals. However, you can still set the groundwork for a strong sense of self-worth by

• Taking gentle care of your infant
• Answering your infant’s cries
• Providing lots of kisses and grins.
• These kinds of exchanges demonstrate to your infant that they are valued and lovable.

Children’s self-esteem

Toddlers are beginning to comprehend who they are, what they are capable of, and what makes them who they are. Here are some suggestions for raising your toddler’s self-esteem:

• Allow your child to make decisions about things that are safe for toddlers, such as which toy to play with or whether to put jam or vegemite on toast. This gives young children a fun sensation of control, which promotes self-assurance and identity development.
• Give your youngster the opportunity to refuse. Toddlers must learn self-confidence and that their actions have repercussions.
• Allow your youngster to explore their surroundings, but be available to help if necessary. Your toddler might be captivated by an ant but terrified when it creeps on their foot, for instance. You must reassure your child that it’s okay.
• Help your youngster navigate challenging social settings. Because they are still figuring out who they are and what belongs to them, toddlers may struggle to share and wait their time.

Young children’s self-esteem

Preschoolers at this age frequently enjoy making comparisons with others and will inquire as to whether they are the biggest, fastest, or finest at whatever they are doing. You may play a significant part in fostering your child’s sense of worth and assisting them in appreciating themselves.

Here are a few tips:

Give your child balanced feedback. This is a compliment to your child for trying things, doing their best, or trying something new—not for being the “best.” It encourages them to appreciate other people’s successes as well. For example: “Well done for racing and for doing your best – I’m proud of you. Let’s congratulate Sven on the win.”

Explain that losing is a part of life. Ask questions like “Did you try well?” or “Did you enjoy it?” before asking “Did you win?” This shows your child that whether they won or lost, you value them—and encourage them you child to do the same.

Play simple board games or card games together. Turn-taking games like these will help your child play cooperatively and get along with others. This can give your child skills and confidence in social situations.

Encourage your child to help you around the house – for example setting the table or putting away the laundry. This shows your child that you trust them with responsibility, which will help make your child feel comfortable.

Show interest in things that interest your child. For example, you could visit the library to borrow books on your child’s favourite subject. Or spend time together building, doing puzzles, kicking – or whatever your child enjoys.

Elementary school-age children and self-esteem

At school, children may compare themselves to their friends and classmates. At this age, self-esteem is related to many things, including how well children learn, how they look, how they do sports, and how easily they make friends.

Challenges at school seem to affect your child’s self-esteem as your child may feel less capable than others the first time. But this will help them learn that they don’t have to be perfect at everything to be loved, valued, and capable.

Here are some ways you can help:

• Give extra love and cuddles at the end of the school day.
• Focus on your child’s effort and the courage it takes to try new or difficult things. For example: “I know you were worried about dancing in concert, but you were brave enough to give it up.”
• Encourage your child to try again if things don’t go to plan the first time. You could say, “Go ahead, try again – I think you can do it”. This also strengthens your child’s resistance.
• Coach your child through difficult social situations—for example, “Try to show a big smile when you want to join in. People will want to play with you if you look happy.” You could start by trying to role-play these situations with your child.