14 Ways to Complement Your Child

One of the most important gifts you can give your child is the gift of loving and trusting themselves. One of the ways to do this is to complement them daily and show them how much you value them.

Its important to be specific and sincere when you do this, so that it will ring true and be accepted by their psyche. Saying "You're the best singer in the world," even if you feel that way will not feel real to your child but saying "I love your pretty voice. You sing all the notes so well." will mean far more to them.

You may think your child knows how much you love them, but when you're little you sometimes don't realize the truths that are obvious to adults. They don't understand subtlety or body language so its important to be direct and simple. Some sensitive children may feel bad about themselves for small things such as a scolding or punishment so its important to reenforce how you feel to them daily or many times a day even if it seems so obvious.

Of course, telling them you love them is one of the most important things, but here is a short list of things you can say to make your children feel cherished. Replace any specifics with things they do that are special or your want to recognize.

You are my treasure.

You are very good at helping me.

You are important.

You are very good at picking out cute things.

Its fun when you're here with me.

You have good ideas.

When I think of you, you make me smile.

You always try so hard.

You have an amazing imagination.

I was so proud of you today when you (dressed yourself/shared with your friends/controlled your temper/helped without being asked).

I love spending time with you.

You give the best hugs.

I'm always excited to see what you're going to draw next.

I'm glad God gave you to me.

Of course, over praising is also a problem because your child shouldn't do things just for your complements or need your words to decide if something is good or not. Its not healthy for future development as their friends and bosses will never praise them as much as you do, but a good balance will give them the foundation they need for forming their own esteem. Its important that they fall asleep every night secure that you love them, want them around, and think they are really special.