Tell Your Children That You Love Them
December 12, 2008 by Tyler Hartle
The things you say as a parent to your children often stays with them forever. Children need to feel accepted and loved for simply being themselves, and not only told this when they do things well. As parents we have the responsibility to build and strengthen the self esteem of our children like no other force on earth.
Every child is unique
Individual differences in children should be encouraged and valued. Every child has his or her own contribution to make to his or her own family, friends and community.
Children need to feel good about who they are.
Positive self esteem is feeling good about yourself, feeling that you are worthwhile. Self esteem gives children confidence and hope in their future. Children need to like themselves, to feel that they are important, capable and that they can achieve in their lives. Children with a healthy self esteem feel more confident about learning and trying new things.
Ways to tell children they are important:
- Tell your children often that you love them for who they are.
- Show your children that you love them by spending time together, listening to them, giving them lots of hugs and smiles.
- Celebrate the achievements of your children, no matter how small.
- Praise your children for trying, no matter what the outcome.
- Keep special reminders of their successes and milestones.
- Let your children help you do things.
- Let your children know it is OK to make mistakes; it is all part of learning.
- Help your children to build on their strengths.
- Ask their opinion on family matters. It shows you care about what they think.
- Help your children to solve their own problems. Show your children that you have faith in them.
- Make limits and expectations you establish for your children clear and consistent.
- Give feedback about inappropriate or unhelpful behavior, but do not criticize.
- Feedback should aim to teach, not hurt your child.
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