A feeling of self-worthiness and importance is quite crucial for a child's healthy development. A good dose of healthy self-esteem can serve as a protective shield for a child against the challenges of the world. If a child feels good about themself, they will more than likely be able to handle conflicts and resist adverse pressures much better.
Children with better self-worth tend to have a much happier outlook and are more able to enjoy life. They also tend to be more realistic and have a more positive approach.
Studies have also shown that children who feel important are quite, respectful, they tend to do quite well in academics, extracurricular activities, and hobbies. They also develop healthy relationships with their peers.
On the other hand, if a child is lacking in self-worth or does not feel important or cherished, they tend to have low self-esteem. For such children, challenges can become a source of great anxiety and frustration. When a child thinks poorly of themself, they tend to struggle when it comes to solving problems. They also have a strong tendency to become passive, withdrawn, or depressed.
As a parent, you will be the greatest influence and can nurture these feelings and traits in your child. You will be able to boost and shape these qualities of feeling important, valued, and worthy.
Always remember to commend your child for a job well done – no matter how small. It is these small gestures that will boost your child’s self-worth and importance. Whilst praising the good traits in them, also support them in finding ways to learn and grow from their mistakes and failures.
Balance the praise with constructive criticism if the situation warrants it. Honesty and sincerity would be the best way to go. Help them understand that making mistakes is part of the learning process and there is no need to feel so down, should that be the case. This will not take away from their value or self-worth. Teach them how to bounce back from such situations.
The best way to do this is to be a role model to them – for them to see these traits in you. When you nurture such traits in yourself, your child will see this first hand and emulate. Be that role model for your child, and your child will learn to do the same.
Conclusion
Help your child highlight the positives in themself, and together, come up with a way to identify and nurture the great traits and skills in them. By doing so, your child will definitely be well on their way to developing a healthy sense of self-importance, value, and worth which will stand them in good stead into adulthood.
