Make Your Kids Feel Valuable with Subliminal Messages

Building True Self Esteem Through Everyday Action

Jaipi Sixbear
We're always hearing about the importance of building self esteem in our children. How do you make your kids feel valuable and valued? It's not just about being their biggest cheerleader, although that certainly doesn't hurt. Your actions send subtle messages to your child. Are you sending messages that break or build self esteem?

Show trust to build self esteem. When you constantly question your kids motives, friends or activities, you send a message of mistrust. This subliminal message tells kids they are not trustworthy. It can be a real blow to their self esteem. There's nothing wrong with restricting kids from dangerous activities or even dangerous influences. Just make sure you place the blame on the situation, not your kids lack of self control. Never insult their friends, make it about their behavior.

Don't put kids down by discussing their behavior with your friends. Highlighting their bad behavior won't make it go away. Treat your relationship with your kids the same as you do the one with your spouse. Keep their issues and struggles private. By respecting their privacy, you build their self esteem. You also make it more likely they will trust you enough to come to you for advice and support.

Brag about your kids. Don't just refrain from discussing their faults. Talk up their strengths. In fact, make their strengths your main focus. It's easy for good behavior to get lost when addressing difficulties and doling out consequences. Be sure you give more attention for good deeds than you do for mistakes and missteps along life's path.

Expect the best from your kids. Make it clear that you know they'll do the right thing. Say things like, "I love how you always work hard to achieve your goals." or "I like the way you set a good example for your younger brother. Thanks for helping me out." Kids will live up to your expectations, no matter what they are. Make them positive for best results.

Make your kids priority one. If your child needs some time with you, be willing to sacrifice all else. Turn off the TV. Step away from the computer. Tell your friend you'll call her back later. Take a day off from work when they're sick or just to spend time with them. Give your kids your full attention. Show them they are important enough to make sacrifices for. Show them they are valuable. Self esteem comes from knowing someone else finds your needs more important than their own.

More from Jaipi:

How to push your tween's "like" buttons for optimum success

How to help your kids make friends at school

What kids really want when they misbehave in public

Published by Jaipi Sixbear - Featured Contributor in Lifestyle

This award winning web writer is co-owner of several writing websites. She's a featured parenting contributor on Yahoo! Shine and Yahoo! Voices. She enjoys helping fellow writers maintain a positive mindset...  View profile

1 Comments

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  • Michele Starkey10/4/2011

    Sometimes a simple smile when they do a good thing just shows them that you noticed it. cheers :)

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