Raising children to be emotionally healthy is incredibly difficult in today’s society. The violence, disrespect, and negative behaviors that children are exposed to day in and day out are startling. Therefore, as parents, it is our responsibility to meet our children’s need for unconditional love and assurance.
Ways to help increase your child’s self-confidence
Physical touch: hugs, pats on the back, high-fives, wrestling, holding hands, etc.
Words of affirmation: praise, encouragement, guidance. Make sure it is true and justified. Children can see right through kind words that are lacking heart.
Quality Time: It is focused attention. We can be with our kids all day but not really “with” them. It doesn’t require that you go somewhere but just that you are together. Positive eye contact and conversation is an important part of this.
Gifts: It’s not about the size of the gift but the heart behind it. I remember one of my favorite gifts was a box (with nothing in it) that said “Do not open this gift but know that it is full of love inside.” Be careful not to use gifts as payback or bribe.
Act of Service: My daughters love for me to give them pedicures. Another idea is to randomly make their bed for them with a nice note like “Thanks for working so hard on your homework this week.” Making their favorite meal or dessert is another idea.
Enrichment Therapy & Learning Center has locations in Johnston and North Liberty, IA, with virtual services also available. We provide individualized speech-language therapy, dyslexia and reading intervention, academic support, and executive functioning services to help children build skills and confidence. Contact us to learn more about how we can support your child.
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