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Self-esteem is the foundation of how a person acts, thinks and feels about the world and themselves.

Self-esteem includes other qualities, such as self-confidence, pride, independence, self-reliance, and self-respect. Experts say we develop our self-esteem during childhood, and it constantly evolves as we are shaped by the different social interactions and experiences we go through.

Even though our later relationships with our peers and other adults may impact our self-esteem, the most important thing parents can do is to allow a child to feel as though they can be themselves in an emotionally and physically safe environment.

Positive interactions and relationships with parents, teachers, and other adults is the basis for good self-esteem in children. These adults can influence children’s self-esteem by giving constructive and positive feedback to children when they accomplish a task. A “Congratulations” or “Nice job” is all it takes to build this vital skill.

Children who feel that they are competent often feel as though they are accepted, which is also an important part of building good self esteem in children. By keeping your child involved in challenging activities, and encouraging them to try even when they may fail is an important way to encourage personal growth. A child who constantly succeeds at simple, unchallenging tasks may feel as though he shouldn’t even try to accomplish more difficult tasks.

Giving constructive communication, positive messages, and carefully delivering criticism will lead to good self-esteem. Use these tips to improve a child’s self-perceptions.

1. Give “Don’ts” as little as necessary Handing out too many negative remarks will leave a child feeling inadequate. Keep your responses as positive as possible.

2. Allow a child to finish their own sentence Children begin to feel unimportant if you are always putting words into their mouth. Let them finish what they’re trying to say without interruption.

3. Get on their level. If you are talking to a toddler, you should kneel down to speak to them. The child should be able to see your face without straining to look up.

4. Make sure you have conversations One person shouldn’t do all the talking. Likewise, kids must learn only one person should talk at a time. Everyone can’t speak at once. Make sure they know that if more than one person is trying to talk, they won’t understand a thing.

5. Keep your cool. Make sure you wait to talk to your child when you are calm and relaxed. Speaking to a child when you are angry will only feed the flames of conflict.

6. Criticisms should still be present. We should also take notice of shortcomings or misbehavior as we see it or learn about it. Explain why an action is not acceptable, and allow kids to think of ways to avoid doing it again.