[nancynic]

Carl Rogers sees self-esteem as the nucleus of the personality. Self-esteem is how we feel about ourselves. People with low self-esteem are prone to anxiety, depression and self-destructive behaviors. People with high self-esteem tend to have more satisfying and productive lives and better interpersonal relationships.

Self-esteem develops from the feedback we get from people early in our lives and from our ongoing successes. Parents can have considerable influence on children's self-esteem and confidence.

The ways we spend time with children and the ways we discipline them have an effect on their self-esteem. Attending to children, letting them know they are loved, listening to them and viewing the world from their perspective are ways to boost their self-esteem. Encouraging children to help out and become self-sufficient also help their level of confidence and sense of self-esteem.

When children misbehave it's important to be mindful of the way we discipline them. It's also important to tell children that we love them, and sometimes we don't like their behavior - with the emphasis on love. Discipline can be firm and kind - it can be a method of teaching rather than a means of punishing.

What are some ways you foster your children's self-esteem?

Nancy