By Mariana De Luca, MA, NBCT

What is Self-esteem? The way a person thinks and feels about himself or herself.

Why is self-esteem important? How you feel about yourself affects how you act. How children feel about themselves affects the way they act. How you feel and think about yourself and how children feel and think about themselves can change each day.

Why is self-esteem important? Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs

Five Areas of Self-esteem Self - esteem Social area Academic area Family relationships Physical image General perception

Characteristics of Children with High Self-esteem Make friends easily Show enthusiasm for activities Are cooperative and follow age appropriate rules Control their behavior Play by themselves and with other children Like to be creative and have their own ideas Are happy, full of energy, and talk to others without much encouragement ( Nuttall, P. (1991). Self-esteem and children in NNCC)

Analyzing Language “I can’t do anything well.” “I can pass this test.” “I don’t like me. I wish I were someone else.” “I can never play.” “Don’t squeeze the kitten”. “I know I can’t do it.” “I know you can do it, keep trying.” “Hold the kitten gently.” “I had a great time.”

Analyzing Actions Expect too much or too little Criticize Use inappropriate language Overprotect or neglect

Parents Actions that Help Build Self-esteem Show affection and love. Provide support. Spend time with child. Teach respect. Teach positive attitude. Praise each child’s successes. Show interest in each child’s activities or problems. Tell children what to do instead of what not to do.

Home Activities to Build Self-esteem Set goals together Discuss feelings, what they are proud of, what they are good at, etc. Read, play games, draw, have fun together Do chores

Children with high self-esteem feel… Good about themselves Loved Happy Do well in school Get along with others Have fewer emotional problems

References (2008). Your child’s Self-Esteem. South Deerfield, MA: Channing L. Bete Co. Marzano, R. (2004). Building Background Knowledge for Academic Achievement. Alexandria, VA: ASCD. Nuttal, P. (1991). Self –esteem and children. (Family Day Care Facts Series). Amherst, MA: University of Massachusetts.