Nevada County Picayune and Gurdon Times Newspaper Archive

Developing Self Esteem Is Life-Long Process

Children's self-esteem is an important tool for success at home, school and a happy, productive life. Developing self-esteem is a lifelong process. It involves gaining a sense of self-worth by feeling loved and capable. Children develop their self-esteem at different stages.

Self-esteem for infants is encouraged when adults attend to children's basic needs and build a sense of trust with their children. Infants cannot understand every word spoken to them, but they are sensitive to tone of voice, touch, smile and laughter. Toddlers establish a sense of self-esteem by learning to do things for themselves and by touching, tasting and feeling everything in sight. This is their first step toward independence. Creating a safe environment and letting toddlers explore will encourage independence.

Self-esteem in preschoolers is grouped together with learning and processing new skills. As they grow and develop they begin to learn that they have their own personal interests and skills. School age children are very excited about their own abilities. Sometimes they may set very high expectations. Such positive attitudes are wonderful. But it is helpful to remember that young children have not had many chances to discover what their weaknesses and strengths are in school. Learning new skills and becoming competent are sure ways to achieve a strong sense of self.

The following are some ways to help build self-esteem in young children, according to Traci Johnston, assistant specialist  child care, Cooperative Extension Service, University of Arkansas:

Praise each child's successes. Praise the children who try hard.

Give sincere affection. Let children know that they are loved and wanted.

Show interest in each child's activities, projects or problems. Let the children know that mistakes are a natural part of growing up.

Show appreciation when children cooperate and obey the rules. Remember that learning new skills takes time and practice. Respond affectionately when children behave well. Let children know that you believe in them. When a child misbehaves, separate the misbehavior from the child.

It is important to help children feel loved and to teach them the skills they need to feel capable when faced with life's highs and lows. Positive self-esteem is possible for everyone, but it does not always happen quickly. True self-esteem is developed over many years. Parents, child care professionals and teachers can play an important role in strengthening children's self-esteem by showing them love, treating them respectfully, taking their views and opinions seriously and expressing appreciation to them.

Learn more about child development through the Clark County office of the Cooperative Extension Service, University of Arkansas at 501 Clay Street in Arkadelphia, or call 246-2281.