Self-esteem and self-worth ….

One of the reasons children get involved with drugs or alcohol is because they have a low self worth and/or low self-esteem. I believe as a parent it is our responsibility to help create positive self esteem and self worth in our children. Building self-esteem and self worth is just one way to help your children stay away from unhealthy choices. The better they feel about themselves the more likely they are to make a healthy choice.

No one can predict what will keep your children away from these unhealthy choices; however doing as many of the things on the list below will greatly increase the odds. Let get started today “building up” your children so they make the right choices and stay healthy.

I’ve created a list of some ways to help you “build up” your children. Remember these take practice; however doing a little everyday will make a BIG difference!

Ways to help “build up” your children:

Help children feel good about themselves.

Praise efforts as well as accomplishments.

Always criticize the action and NOT the person.

Develop strong values. Help your children understand your family values.

Communicate your values openly about honesty, responsibilities, respect, morals and choices.

Recognize how your actions affect your children’s values and beliefs.

Be a good role model; remember your habits and attitudes STRONGLY INFLUENCE your children. Actions speak louder than words. Lead by example and be a positive role model. Children copy the behavior of their parents.

Spend quality time doing family activities.

Make time for your children. Children feel more important when their parents spend time with them. Do what they enjoy!

Teach children working ways to say NO & Practice with them.

Establish trust that your children will say No.

Take time to say I LOVE YOU every day, make sure they know that. Hug your children and kiss them. Make them feel loved!

Catch your children doing something good (positive) and PRAISE them for it.

Be a good listener.

Talk TO your children not AT them.

Be positive.

Believe in your children.

Be involved with their lives.

Reward good behavior and discipline bad behavior.

Ask children their opinion about family problems and decisions.

Ask your children’s opinions about current events and life in general.

Set the rules and the consequences. Follow through when the rules are broken and don't be afraid to set firm limits.

Be in control, give expectation and consequences, but remember to be realistic and appropriate to their ages.

Make family rules together.

Have boy's day or girl’s day.

Be consistent with your children.

Encourage children to turn to you. What is important to them MAY NOT be important to you – listen and be understanding.

Be PATIENT!!

There you have it, some ways to help “build up” your children’s self-esteem and self worth. . Remember it takes practice and patience. I encourage you to take something from this list today and add it to your daily routine with your children. Add something new each week. I hope this helps, and I wish that everyone who comes in contact with children will try to “build up” that child and make a positive impression!

Some helpful links ….

http://life.familyeducation.com/self-esteem/parenting/34401.html

http://www.childdevelopmentinfo.com/parenting/self_esteem.shtml

Next months….Working ways to say “NO”

Until then…. Take action now…

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