BUILDING SELF-ESTEEM FROM POSITIVE PRAISE: A TRANSFORMATIVE APPROACH TO PARENTING

From the first days of life, children absorb not only the language around them, but also the attitudes and emotional expressions of those who care for them. Positive praise is powerful tools that parents can use to foster healthy self-esteem in their children from an early age. Instead of just saying "Good job!" Generally speaking, specific positive praise can have a lasting impact on children's emotional and psychological development.

The Importance of Specific Praise:

When we praise our children, it is crucial to be specific in our comments. Instead of saying, "You're amazing," we could say something like, "I was impressed with how you solved that difficult math problem." This targeted approach not only recognizes a child's effort and ability, but also provides concrete information about what specific behavior or achievement was highlighted. This, in turn, helps build self-esteem by linking praise with concrete actions and tangible achievements.

The Power of the Word "For":

An effective strategy is to incorporate the word "for" when giving praise. Instead of just saying, "You're so smart," we can say, "You're so smart because of the way you solved that puzzle." This small change helps children understand that their intelligence and abilities are connected to their actions and efforts, rather than innate qualities. Fostering the belief that effort and dedication lead to success is essential to building a positive and resilient mindset.

Praise that Promotes Autonomy:

As children grow, it is essential to encourage autonomy and decision making. Instead of always telling them what to do, we can praise their choices and decisions. For example, instead of just saying, "Make your bed," we could say, "I love how you decided to make your bed this morning without me asking." This type of praise reinforces autonomy and helps children feel capable and competent.

Avoid Excessive Praise:

Although positive praise is essential, it is important to avoid excessive praise. Praising every small action can dilute the impact of genuine praise and cause it to lose its meaning. Instead, let's focus on meaningful, specific praise that truly highlights our children's notable achievements and efforts.

Conclusion:

Ultimately, positive praise is not just about saying nice words, but about building a solid foundation for children's self-esteem and self-confidence. By being specific, using the word "for," encouraging autonomy, and avoiding excessive praise, we can create an environment in which children feel valued for their efforts and achievements, thus contributing to healthy and lasting emotional development.