How to Influence Your Infant's Self-Esteem

The way in which your baby views herself develops as she grows, and as her parent your job is to start influencing her self-esteem in a positive manner from day one. According to Meri Wallace, licensed clinical social worker, children are more apt to succeed in life and enjoy their success when they have positive self-esteem. No parent is perfect and that might make you wonder how you can foster a healthy sense of self-confidence in your infant, but it̵7;s actually very simple.

Instructions

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      Influence your baby̵7;s self-esteem by modeling positive self-esteem yourself, advises the American Academy of Pediatrics. Even if you think your infant doesn̵7;t notice, he is very perceptive of your behaviors and your moods. This means your negative moods can cause him worry, fear and uncertainty. All of this can lead to the development of unhealthy self-esteem.

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      Make it a point to smile at your infant as often as possible, advises Wallace. You are her mirror into her own self-worth and your smiles and reassurance teach her that she is worthy of your love and attention, that she is wanted and that she is safe and secure because she is accepted by you and the rest of your family.

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      Speak carefully to your infant, advises Wallace. Even if he̵7;s too young to understand what you are saying, your tone and words can cause him to build either positive or negative self-esteem. Try using positive words and a positive tone. For example, instead of responding to him harshly or with an angry expression for grabbing your hair and hurting you, explain gently that when he grabs your hair it hurts. He probably won̵7;t understand what you̵7;re saying but he will understand your tone.

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      Be there for your infant. When you are there to comfort her when she cries, play with her when she̵7;s lonely and love her unconditionally, she develops a sense of security. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, a baby needs to feel secure if she is to develop a healthy sense of self-esteem.

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      Offer praise and positive reinforcement when your baby does things, advises Wallace. For example, the first time he rolls over, praise him for being so strong and independent. When he crawls, praise him for his hard work practicing rocking back and forth and finally gathering the courage to get on the move. The more you praise him, the more likely he is to develop a healthy sense of self-esteem. Not being praised can make him feel as if nothing he does is good enough, which can affect his self-esteem negatively.

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