How Respecting the Children Increases Their Self-Esteem (2)

In any given situation, we adults are prone to exercise our seniority when communicating with children and adults alike. In reality, despite their height, children do need respect to develop their self-esteem. Why don’t we respect their needs just like as we do for other adults?

In an earlier post, we have shared on 3 ways that can help to increase self-esteem in children.

Now, let us move on to another 3 ways:

1. Respect the child’s interests

Each of us is born with talents and interests. As long as the interests / hobbies are sensible, parents and teachers alike shall give encouragement and support to help those children to develop their skills. It is not so much about developing the skills to make a living out of them. Rather, it is more about nurturing good habits, such as discipline, pursuit of thoughts, giving their best and enjoying what they do. Children with hobbies benefit greatly as they will gain additional skills on top of what are thought in classroom.

2. Respect the child’s creativity

Many psychologists have pointed out that children who are strong in creativity tend to be less disciplined and disobedient. Instead of getting them to do things in a certain way, let them express themselves in their own ways. With this, we are stimulating their creativity and help to hone their skills.

3. Respect the child’s needs for being understood

We have a need to be understood. So do children. When misunderstanding occurs, we adults shall focus more on how to make the environment a better place for the children instead of refusing to admit the mistakes we have made. A simple apology to the children will in fact strengthen our relationship and cultivate the value of respect in children. They will regain their trust in us which in turn will enhance their self-esteem.

This coming Malaysia’s Children’s Day (26 October 2013), let us put our hands together and create a better place for the children of tomorrow.

Further reading:

• How Respecting the Children Increases Their Self-Esteem (1)
• Study says: Parents’ Yelling and Hitting Are Equally Harmful
• How to Say No Without Saying No
• Why Love Matters: How Affection Shapes a Baby’s Brain