Kids who are confident are more likely to get good grades.

Here are some good ways to build self-esteem:

• Give individual attention. Spend regular, one-on-one time with each of your children. This will help you develop strong relationships.
• Encourage your child’s interests. Notice the things that make her special. If she loves drawing, for example, do plenty of art projects together.
• Display things your child makes. Think of creative ways to do this, such as laminating drawings and turning them into place mats.
• Let your child do new things. He might help you cook something, for example, or pick out a shirt to wear.
• Emphasize your child’s strengths. Look for opportunities to compliment her. And when you must criticize, do it helpfully—not hurtfully.
• Make a scrapbook together. Let your child choose favorite pictures, drawings or mementos to include.
• Reminisce about your childhood. What did your parents do that made you feel special? Try some of these things with your child.

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