We all want our children to have a "can do" attitude, to have a positive approach to life, & ultimately confidence in themselves. This high level of self-esteem sometimes needs encouragement & a strong foundation starting with parents.

Children these days receive so many verbal & visual messages from many sources such as television, radio, friends, & family, which all influence the way they see themselves.

Here are some ideas to help build your child's self-esteem:
1. Let your child know what they are good at - & encourage their strengths
2. Tell them it's okay to make mistakes & be wrong, it's apart of learning
3. Encourage the attitude that anything is possible if they give it a try
4. Create an achievement board to celebrate successes
5. Develop a strong language of encouragement that focuses on effort, improvement, their contribution and displays your confidence in their ability to succeed
6. Value & ask for your children's opinion
7. Help children set goals & teach them to stick to them
8. Teach them responsibility & the outcomes of what they do or do not do
9. Give them constructive feedback to support their goals & talents
10. Don't compare them to others

Once you see a child with a healthy level of self-esteem you will be able to notice the difference in their attitude & behaviours. Generally they will have a sense of belonging, value, & appreciation to do more & be more.