Build Child's Self-Esteem to Increase Safety
Low self-esteem in children leaves them vulnerable to the
compliments and praise of a stranger. Children that receive
continual support from home will feel good about them, have
higher self-esteem, and be more self-confident.
Children with self-confidence are more likely to stay away from
anyone that makes advances toward them will ill intentions.
Keep you child comfortable talking to you. If you make them feel
loved and understood at home, they will be more likely to keep
open communication lines with you, even on sensitive subjects.
They won't have to turn to others for understanding when they
are able to receive it at home.
>From a young age, constantly remind your children that they can
come to you for help at any time, for anything, under any
circumstances. This continual reminding will help them remember
that their parents at home are their to guide, advise, and
support.
All children have or will bin in a situation where the think,
"My parents are going to kill me!" It might be a car accident or
experimentation with alcohol, but this is when they need
assistance and parental guidance the most. Be there for them and
they won't have to turn to outsiders that may be looking for
vulnerable, scared kids to draw into their deceptions.
How do you build self-esteem in children? Constantly let your
child know he or she is special, that you care about them, be
compassionate, let your child know you are in his or her corner
and you can face the challenges together.
Even when disciplining your child, you can get the concept
across that the discipline is to teach them acceptable behaviors
for the outside world, but you love them no matter what. The
discipline is for the actions they took and your parental
guidance is to help them not harm themselves or others. If
discipline is approached as teaching your child instead of
punishing your child, a bond can be built between parent and
child even during the challenging times of discipline.
Remember the basics, love you children, and show your children
you love them. Reinforce your love for your children and they
will thrive - safely! Be a safe harbor; let them know at home
they can face any challenge together with you as a family. There
is strength in numbers and you are their numbers. Confident
children are safer children!