10 ways to boost your child’s self-esteem

Originally titled "10 easy tips to bolster your child's self-esteem," from the October 2007 issue of Canadian Living Magazine, on newsstands or click here to purchase online.

1. Let your child make age-appropriate decisions.

2. Pay attention to your son when he wants you to.

3. Introduce her and include her in your adult conversations.

4. Love and accept you child for who he is.

5. Seek out your daughter’s opinions and listen with your full attention, even if you disagree.

6. Watch your language. Don’t say things like, “You will spill it” and, “I’m too busy.” Instead say, “You can be careful” and, “Yes, I have a minute.”

7. Be proud. Display his artwork, writing and crafts. Laminate his artwork and use it as place mats.

8. Give time and attention, not material things. Your child knows what you consider important.

9. Give her duties and responsibilities, and acknowledge the effort, not the finished product.

10. Avoid using labels and criticism.
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Edited excerpt from Discipline Without Distress (Professional Parenting Canada, 2007) by Judy Arnall