Health Promoting Schools
Self-esteem
Positive self-esteem is almost universally viewed as the foundation for emotional and social well-being and health. Self-esteem is feeling that we are:
- valued by others
- significant
- competent
- capable of success
- able to manage our emotions.
People with low self-esteem often have low expectations for success and are unable to make the best use of their talents. Those with higher self-esteem are more likely to be autonomous, resist peer pressure, take up opportunities and achieve their goals.
What can families do?
There are many ways in which children and young people's self-esteem can be developed in the family environment too.
- Use positive reinforcement in your child's early learning.
- Encourage your child to learn how to do things independently.
- When your child does something good or for the first time, give plenty of praise.
- Make time to play, learn and talk with your child, and listen to the things that he or she believes are important.
- Maintain good links with your child's school.
