From ‘I Can’t’ to ‘I Can’: 17 ways to raise confidence and self-esteem in kids

In our home, there is no such thing as “I can’t.’’ It’s important that children know that they can do anything if they just try. So, when a child says, “I can’t do something,” you need to find out whether they don’t want to, don’t know how to, or are afraid to.

They don’t want to

If a child doesn’t want to do something, then try again later, or after a day or two. Perhaps they’re tired or just not in the mood. Or maybe they need a little encouragement or reassurance that they can do it. How many times have you felt like you can’t do something and after a short break you returned and tackled it with a more positive attitude?

They don’t know how to

If a child doesn’t know how to do something then spend some time teaching them how to. We all feel overwhelmed when faced with a challenging task or when doing something for the first time so it’s a perfectly natural reaction.

They’re afraid

If a child is afraid to do something, try and help them rationalise their fears and at least give it a try. Need I remind you how you felt before your first interview? You probably knew that you were qualified and more than capable for the job, but that didn’t stop you from feeling nervous or scared.

Why do children doubt themselves?

Educational psychologist, Claire Maher, says, “Some children are born with anxious or tentative temperaments. Hence, the first 1000 days of a child’s life are crucial in developing their little personalities and the way they feel about themselves.”

We must remember that children develop their self-esteem (a sense of feeling good about themselves) through the eyes of others and through their experiences. When they feel loved and accepted by those around them, they feel good about themselves. When they feel good about themselves, they become more confident in their abilities. This is why parents are integral parts of the positive and negative experiences children have, says Maher.

Applying logic to children’s behaviour

Talking about experiences shaping one’s self-esteem, the same logic that applies to adults also applies to kids. Just think about it – would you perform better in a work environment where you are acknowledged, valued, praised and encouraged? Would you flourish in an environment where you are criticised, put down in front of your co-workers and are compared to other employees?

So, the next time you start complaining to someone about your child in front of them, or compare them to their siblings, stop! You’re playing a dangerous game that could result in even bigger problems later on. While in theory it’s easy to say that parents play a big part in developing self-esteem and confidence, in practice what can you actually do about it?

17 ways to build confidence and self-esteem in children

• Encourage children to participate in activities that will challenge and boost them.
• Encourage your child to make friends.
• Read your child books and stories where characters overcome adversity and manage their stress or difficulties in a positive way.
• Always use constructive criticism as opposed to putting your child down.
• Don’t compare your children to each other – no two apples are the same.
• Don’t put down or complain about your children to other people when they are around.
• Don’t put unnecessary pressure on your child to do well. Know your child’s capabilities and don’t push them beyond that.
• Children’s lives these days are so busy that they’re often burnt out. If your child’s schedule is too busy, try to prioritise and cut down where you can. Rather let them do one or two things well than encouraging them to do everything.
• Identify your child’s talents and help develop them to boost their confidence levels.
• Don’t allow your children to mock and put their siblings down. Also, never allow your children to do it to other children.
• Let your children know that they can always come to you if something is bothering them.
• Identify signs that your child is being bullied (within and outside the home).
• Get actively involved in role playing with your kids. Place them in “what if” scenarios and let them figure out solutions to help them become confident in their decision-making.
• Acknowledge their efforts. Instead of always pointing out mistakes they make, try pointing out the good they do.
• Give them simple household responsibilities.
• Let your child know that it is okay to feel unsure and afraid at times.
• Reward your kids instead of punishing them.

“If you have tried all of the above but your child still suffers significantly with self-esteem difficulties, it may be helpful to employ the assistance of a professional,” says Maher. While we often hear that parenting doesn’t come with a handbook, sometimes we don’t actually need it – all we need is some common sense.