Instilling Self-Esteem in Grandchildren

A healthy sense of self worth is vital for success in life. For children having the love and support of the adults in their lives can go a long way toward establishing self-confidence and the lifelong ability to persevere through difficult times. Grandparents can help their grandchildren to develop good self esteem in a number of ways.
Learning to Love and Be Loved
Children get their first view of the world around them from their families. Kids who are surrounded by warm and attentive people are likely to grow up feeling secure which is a great base for healthy self esteem. Grandparents are commonly brimming with love for their grandchildren, which when openly expressed, makes the kids feel worthy and valuable. Sharing time with grandchildren and letting them know how dear they are assures them that they are well loved. Grandparents who are generous with hugs, smiles, and praise are sure to be admired in return, which is rewarding for both the grandparents and for the children. When children reach out in love to their grandparents and are warmly welcomed, they learn to feel safe in expressing their emotions, which is important for healthy emotional development.Sincere Praise
While it is important for grandparents to offer praise, accolades must be given in a sincere manner to be of value. Children have an innate ability to recognise phoniness, so grandparents must applaud the children's efforts and accomplishments without going overboard. Every child is unique and has their own individual strengths and talents, which should be encouraged and allowed to develop.Talking in Ways that Encourage Self Esteem
While children, especially preteens and teenagers, may look at some of their peers as "having it all," adults know that every single person has, at times, felt uneasy about their looks, skills, intelligence, or other traits. Kids need to know that even the most popular kids in their classes have moments of self-doubt and that these feelings are completely normal. Assuring children that they are bright and beautiful, and encouraging them to find areas in which they excel, will help them to not only accept, but to celebrate their individual gifts.Often, children see their grandparents as knowledgeable and accomplished. Being in the unique position of being admired allows grandparents the opportunity to talk to their grandchildren about their own experiences with both success and failure throughout their lives. Kids will benefit from knowing that their grandparents were not always good at everything, and possibly struggled with some of the same difficulties that their grandchildren are currently facing. Knowing that the people that they respect have had their share of obstacles may help children to understand that even though some things are hard for them, they are no less worthy.
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