5 Ways to Boost Your Child's Confidence

By: Marie Magdala Roker

You can help build healthy pride in your child. All it takes is 5 simple steps.

1. Encourage your child’s talents, set realistic expectations, and accept limitations.

Don’t expect too much or too little from your child. Set goals based on the child’s abilities and interests—not someone else’s expectations. Celebrate accomplishments. Don’t compare your child’s abilities to those of other children; appreciate the uniqueness of your child.

2. Encourage your child to express his/her feelings; respect those feelings.

Let your child know that everyone experiences pain, fear, anger, and anxiety.
Talk with your child to earn the source of these feelings. Help your child express anger positively, without resorting to violence. Set an example by demonstrating healthy problem-solving and coping skills.

3. Promote mutual respect and trust.

Agree to disagree. Express your willingness to talk about any subject. Be willing to listen as much as you talk. Encourage questions. Be honest if you don't know answer.

4. Foster your child’s independence and self-worth.

Help your child deal with life’s ups and downs. Show confidence in your child’s ability to handle problems and tackle new experiences.

5. Love your child unconditionally.

Show approval for positive behaviors. Help your child learn from his/her mistakes. Apologize when you are wrong and teach your child the value of forgiveness, cooperation, and patience. Discipline fairly and consistently.

Article by:

Marie Magdala Roker is a Personal Development Coach and a Certified Breakthrough Parenting Instructor. She is also author of a free ebook: 45 Ways to Be A Better Parent and Raise Well-Balanced and Responsible Kids. You can find out more about her parenting classes and get her free ebook at www.successfulchild.com