Self worth is so important in all of our lives and that's why it's important that we, as parents and caregivers of children, have such a responsibility to know how to instill this important foundational structure into our child's life.
Oftentimes, it comes down to very simple acts and conversations with your children that can enhance how they see themselves as being worthy.
Below is a list of ways in which you can impart self worth and encourage a positive self image for your child.
oStop what you are doing and give your child your full attention when they are talking to you.
oMake eye contact with your child as they are talking to you.
oBe aware of your body language when talking with them - show positive expression as they tell you a story.
oGet to know your children's friends.
oPlay with your child - even when you don't feel like it.
oPartake in your child's hobbies.
oLearn to appreciate your child's style of music oTell your child you love them .
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often oTell them WHY you love them .
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often oGive your child meaningful compliments oTake note of your child's strengths and bring them to your child's attention.
oGive your child opportunities to work and accomplish projects/tasks on their own.
oHelp your child set meaningful goals.
Then help them to measure their success toward each goal.
oEncourage your child to try new things oAllow your child to fail but be there to lift them back up oExpand your child's sphere of life experiences oGive your child hugs .
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often oPlay "My Favorite Memory Game" (My favorite memory about ____ is ____) and then have the rest of family give their answers about that child.
oLaugh together with your child oDo some sort of service project with them oTeach your child to take good care of their bodies - watching what they eat, what they listen to, what they read andwhat they watch on TV etc.
- this is all so important.
oGive them a courtesy call if you are going to be home later than they expected you home.
oBe a great example of how to treat others with respect and how to see the worth in every individual - making sure you speak positively about others especially in the presence of your child.
Seeing the worth of others helps us to recognize our own worth.
oGo on dates with your child to their favorite place or restaurant - just the two of you - make it special for them - let them plan the time.
Most importantly, and first on the list, tell your child and teach your child about their Father in Heaven, about Jesus their savior who died for them and the power of the Holy Spirit.
Tell them and teach them they are not a mistake but that God loves them so much that He created them to have communication with Him.
Teach them that God has a wonderful purpose and plan for their lives and knew them before they were even born.
All of these truths help your children to see themselves as a prized gift and so worthy to be alive.
This is the only place any of us will find the real foundational structure of our self worth.