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How to Foster Your Daughter's Self-Esteem
Six ways to help her feel special
In a world where people are often judged on the basis of appearance, it’s important to teach your child a broader definition of beauty: that it’s unique to each individual and has many different aspects. For example, beauty has much to do with self-confidence — when you believe in yourself and feel beautiful, you look beautiful too. Here are some tips for helping her appreciate herself.
Teach Her to Accept Compliments Graciously
It’s easy to brush off a flattering comment with a self-deprecating remark (“Oh, I just threw this outfit together”). Instead, she should learn to enjoy someone else’s kind words. Set the right example the next time someone praises you in your child’s presence: Smile and say thank you!Praise Her Hard Work
Did she just land the lead in her school musical or hit the winning homer in the softball play-offs? Don’t say, “That was lucky!” or “What a break!” Instead, tell her, “That was wonderful — you really earned it” and explain exactly why (“I saw you practicing in the backyard all day Sunday — I’m not surprised you’re such a great hitter”). In the long run this will encourage her to give her all to everything she attempts.Perform Charity Work Together
Collect groceries, help your local day-care center create a garden, or visit a nursing home together and read to the elderly. Your daughter will build a feeling of self-worth when she sees she is capable of helping others.Encourage Her to Explore Her Interests
Is your girl always doodling? Buy art supplies and set up a place where she can paint. Does she love to sing? Splurge on some voice lessons or a karaoke machine. Down the road, she’ll find confidence in her abilities.Encourage Fitness
Suggest that she sign up for a summer sports team, swim at the local pool or even just take walks. Better still, set a fitness goal —say, to exercise for at least 30 minutes a day —and work out together. You’ll both get in shape, and you’ll teach her to love her body for all the amazing things it can do.Ask Her Opinion About Things
For example, get her thoughts on where the family should vacation next or what video to rent for family movie night. She’ll feel that her thoughts and opinions are valuable. Ultimately, when she’s older, she’ll feel secure enough to speak her mind.Rate this article:
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