Self-esteem is a fundamental aspect in the emotional and social development of children. Healthy self-esteem allows them to face challenges, establish positive relationships with others, and feel confident in themselves. On the other hand, a lack of self-esteem can have a significant impact on a child's life, affecting their general well-being and their ability to function in different situations. It is important that parents, caregivers and professionals are attentive to the signs that may indicate low self-esteem in children, in order to intervene in a timely manner and provide them with the necessary support.
What is self-esteem in children?
Self-esteem in children refers to the perception they have of themselves, their personal value and their abilities. When a child has healthy self-esteem, he or she feels capable, valuable, and worthy of love and respect. On the contrary, lack of self-esteem manifests itself when a child has a negative image of himself, doubts his abilities and feels insecure in his relationships with others.
Self-esteem is built over time. throughout childhood based on the experiences that the child lives in his or her family, school and social environment. The way in which adults relate to the child, the messages they receive and the experiences they go through, play a key role in the formation of their self-esteem.
Signs of lack of self-esteem in children
It is important to be attentive to the signs that may indicate low self-esteem in children. Below are some common signs that can alert parents and caregivers:
Changes in behavior
Children with low self-esteem may show significant changes in their behavior. They may become more withdrawn, avoid social situations, have difficulty expressing their feelings or emotions, and appear more irritable or aggressive. They may also be more susceptible to criticism and have difficulty accepting mistakes or failures.
Excessive self-demand
Children with low self-esteem tend to be very self-critical and demanding of themselves. They may feel like they never do enough, that they are not good enough, or that they don't deserve to be happy. This excessive self-demand can lead to high levels of stress and anxiety in children.
Avoidance of challenges
Children with low self-esteem often avoid challenges or new situations that involve the risk of failure. They prefer to stay in their comfort zone and are afraid of facing situations that test them. This attitude can limit their personal development and hinder their ability to learn and grow.
Emotional dependence
Children with low self-esteem can become emotionally dependent on others, constantly seeking approval and validation of its value abroad. They may have difficulty making decisions for themselves, trusting their own abilities, and developing a solid and authentic identity.
How to help a child with low self-esteem?
It is essential to provide support and guidance for children with low self-esteem to help them improve their self-perception and develop healthy self-esteem. Below, we present some strategies that may be useful:
Encourage communication
Creating a space of trust in which the child feels safe to express their emotions, thoughts and concerns is essential to strengthen your self-esteem. Actively listening to and validating their feelings helps the child feel valued and understood.
Reinforce their strengths
Identifying and highlighting the child's strengths, talents, and achievements helps improve their self-image. and self-confidence. Appreciating his efforts, even if they are small, and celebrating his achievements strengthens his self-esteem and motivates him to continue trying.
Teach coping skills
Teach the child strategies to cope with failure, cope With constructive criticism and managing situations of stress and anxiety, it provides tools to face life's challenges more safely and effectively.
Promote autonomy
Allow the child to Make age-appropriate decisions, assume responsibilities and solve problems on your own, foster your autonomy and self-confidence. Providing them with opportunities to explore their interests and develop their skills also helps to strengthen their self-esteem.
Conclusion
Identifying the lack of self-esteem in children is essential to be able to provide them with the necessary support for their emotional and social development. Being attentive to the signs of low self-esteem and acting in a timely manner can make a difference in a child's life, helping them build a healthy self-esteem that will accompany them throughout their lives.